iMotorhome Australia Magazine Issue 107 - 19 Nov 2016

Surprise

Issue 107: NOV 19 2016

Conquest!

Win!

$50 for the! best letter

Technical

Fiat’s new Ducato engine for 2017!

Event

Illawarra Folk Festival…

MobileTech

Weather apps for summer travel

Jayco’s Conquest FA.25-1 is a surprise package well worth investigating…

2 | About iMotorhome

iMotorhome Magazine is published twice monthly and available by free subscription from www.imotorhome.com.au. Your letters and contributions are always welcome!

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Contributors

Published by iMotorhome

Emily Barker, Sharon Hollamby, Collyn Rivers and Allan Whiting

PO Box 1738, Bowral.

NSW 2776. Australia.

ABN: 34 142 547 719

Design and Production Design & Production Manager

T: +614 14 604 368

Agnes Nielsen

E: info@imotorhome.com.au

E: agnes@imotorhome.com.au

W: www.imotorhome.com.au Editorial Publisher/Managing Editor Richard Robertson T: 0414 604 368 E: richard@imotorhome.com.au Roadtest Editor Malcolm Street T: 0418 256 126 E: malcolm@imotorhome.com.au

Legal All content of iMotorhome Magazine 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.

4 | My Say

The Seven Countries of Australia I’ve always loved the song I Am, You Are, We Are Australian. It’s inspiring and in my opinion a far more suitable national anthem than Advance Australia Fair.

Yet its idealism is a long way from reality. The truth is Australia is split in so many ways across our State and Territory boundaries. Examples of this abound and include everything from daylight saving to road rules and sporting rivalries. It’s also apparent in vehicle regulations you’d think would be harmonised and governed by Australian Design Rules (ADRs). Take, for example, the divisive issue of imported motorhomes and which side the door must to be on. Australian Design Rule 44.8.1 states: Every motor vehicle (motorhome) or trailer (‘Caravan’) equipped with fuel burning (cooking) facilities or living or sleeping accommodation shall have only outward-opening or sliding doors. At least one such door shall be located on the left-hand side or at the rear.

That’s all the ADR says. But of course there’s more…

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Vehicle Standards Guide, which governs vehicle with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 4.5 tonnes, goes further than the ADR. It says: Every motorhome must be fitted with at least one outward opening or sliding door on the left hand side or the rear of the vehicle. Outward security doors fitted over bi-fold or inwards folding doors are not categorised as outward opening doors for this purpose. Doors must provide a clear and direct path of access between the outside and inside of the residential area of the motorhome. The door must not be obstructed by any items such as furniture or a designated seating position. The door should be of a size which allows an average-sized person to easily and directly enter and exit the residential area of the motorhome. The door must be sufficiently close to the ground so that it can be accessed without steps or with a minimal number of fixed steps and does not require portable steps of any kind.

For vehicles under 4.5 tonnes the above guide refers to Vehicle Standards Bulletin 14, Section LH Body and Chassis, Code LH11 Campervan, Motorhome Conversion. On page 69 of this enlightening tome it basically just reiterates the ADR: 5.7 Access and Ventilation Suitable access must be provided to both the travelling and living areas of the motorhome. The motorhome must

have outward opening or sliding doors. At least one of these doors must be located on the left hand side or at the rear of the vehicle.

So you’d think that armed with all the above you could plot a definitive position, depending on the weight of a vehicle.

But you can’t, because NSW has imposed an extra condition. The NSW Roads and Maritime Services says the following: Vehicle Standards Information No. 4 Rev 7 Published 4th April 2016: In addition to meeting all other applicable requirements, a motorhome must have at least one door (other than the driver/front passenger door) that allows access to the accommodation compartment from the left-hand side, or from the rear of, the vehicle.

Queensland Transport has it’s own vague ruling, as follows: All caravans and motorhomes must have at least an outward opening or sliding access door located on the left hand side or rear of the vehicle. The door must provide a space through which an average sized person can easily pass through. Additionally, no external fittings (i.e ladders) shall be required to access the door.

If you’re confused by all this, join the club. Interestingly, Malcolm spoke at length with a couple in Western Australia who recently personally imported a German-built Burstner motorhome, which has it’s body entry door on the righthand side. They said they had to jump through quite a few hoops to get it registered in WA, but the door’s location was never an issue.

So there you have it – and it’s clear as mud. As the Seven Countries of Australia muddle further into the 21st Century the prospect of harmonised rulings and national interest are as dim, distant and unlikely as ever.

NZ has the right approach: Whatever complies with internationally recognised standards is good enough for them. Which side is the door on? Who cares (apart from us lucky ‘protected’ Australians denied global choice by a complex regulatory framework used as a defacto import barrier)? I am, you are, we are from the Seven Countries of Australia…

Richard

6 | Contents

2

About Us

9

Resources

4

On my Mind

11

On your Mind

28

Marketplace

Who we are, where and other legal stuff

Find back issues and more on our website

The Seven Countries of Australia!

Share your thoughts for the chance to win $50!

16

News

32

Day Test: Jayco Conquest FA.25-1

46

Technical: Brokeback Response

50

Technical: Power Play!

54

Events

62

What’s On?

71

Advertisers’ Index

What’s happening in the wider RV world and beyond

The latest Marketplace offers

Surprise Conquest – there’s more to this motorhome than meets the eye…

Firestone fires back over airbag links to ute chassis breaking

Fiat’s new 2.3-litre Euro 6 engine for the Ducato in 2017

Illawarra Folk Festival!

58

Mobile Tech Summer weather apps

What’s on around Australia over the next three months…

An A to Z of who’s in this issue!

72

Next Issue What’s coming up and which shows are on soon!

Van Life

When Monday Doesn’t Matter

trakka.com.au

Resources | 9 resources

iMotorhome

Magazine Resources Just click any of the links below!

Issue

Win!

$50 for the best letter!

Dalgety Report!

Project Polly

A little bit of spit ’n polish!

Travel

Three more RV Friendly Towns to consider…

Back Issues

Road Tests

User Guide

Marketplace

Subscription

106: NOV 05 2016

Deluxe Offering!

Our reader weekend in Dalgety was a great success

Ask a Question

Suncamper’s Sovereign Deluxe offers comfort and some interesting features…

Reader Survey

Reader Review

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Look beneath the surface to find the unique engineering and safety features that will put your mind at ease while travelling. Features such as the rollover bar, high strength alloy frame, composite body, pull-tested cabinetry, appliances and locks will become your priority once you realise they are missing from other mainstream construction methods.

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On Your Mind | 11

Win $50 for the best letter!

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 $50 to help you on your way.

Wife Nose Best!

I

Hubby and I have been looking at buying a newer motorhome after a few years in our first one, an old (and I mean old!) Coaster.

We started looking at ‘proper’ motorhomes around 10 years old but they all seem to smell musty. Yuk! Then I noticed a lot of older ones have carpet, which always seems a silly idea to me because it holds so much awful stuff.

Then I also noticed that van conversions don’t seem to smell as much, but I don’t think it’s just because they also don’t usually have carpet. It dawned on us (okay him!) that when a motorhome is a converted van there’s a lot less places for water to get into the metal body and start to cause mildew and problems.

We’ve noticed that as motorhomes get older some people seem to look after them less, so old bodies made of fibreglass seem like they can be a real trap. Anyway, we’re still looking but I wanted to share our idea that if your nose smells mustiness, be careful – and especially if there’s no carpet! It might be water damage that can cost an arm and a leg. Looks like we’ll be sticking with a newer ‘old’ Coaster as long as it isn’t on the nose!

Thanks, Jan

Thanks Jan, you’ve raised some good points there.

We’ve never understood carpet in RVs, given the dirt that gets tramped inside and how difficult it is to properly clean it. Water damage and dampness are a real issue with older vehicles, especially ones that haven’t been inspected regularly and re-sealed, as per manufacturers’ instructions.

Personally, I’m a great fan of van conversions for their durability against hail, etc, their inherent structural strength plus the limited opportunities for water damage. Funny that your nose should lead you to the same sorts of conclusions, and for that (and helping alert buyers to potential problems) please accept this issue’s $50 prize. It might just buy enough polish to her get your new ‘old’ Coaster in tip-top condition!

12 | On your mind

Real World Spend

W

hen I read the article on camping statistics (Issue 106 NEWS) I nearly choked on my Weeties! It would be interesting to know what planet the writer is on, because it is certainly not the same one that my wife and inhabit.

You have asked about our spending habits. I suspect that could vary depending on our personal plans, etc. At this stage, where I am still working part-time, we choose to stay in caravan parks, but that may change when we undertake a bigger trip. Only time will tell. I also believe the extent that we use our motorhome will also impact. Like iMotorhome, we have acquired an ex-rental vehicle, albeit larger and from the ‘other mob’. We are fast approaching the second anniversary of “Wanda” (as in we wander in Wanda) coming under our care.

In that time, ever though our usual trip is for three nights, we have achieved an ‘occupancy rate’ of about twenty four per cent. By heading somewhere every second weekend we have slept in Wanda almost one night in every four.

Based on our regular short trips we spend between $30 and $40 per night for powered sites. On these trips we will eat out at least once, sometimes twice, and often at the local pub. With a couple of wines each, that’s say $70. Add to that what we spend in the local shops, I estimate our short trips would cost us about $200 - $250 plus fuel. I will not include that, because we usually leave with a full tank and the short trips do not require any more.

On a longer trip, fuel may cost us a further $100 on average.

When it comes to the in-house activities, we can admit to using an in-park pool once, when the temperature was over 40ºC. I would not even know which parks had jumping pillows, mini-golf, etc. Our main activity is bird-watching, so the local information centre is always on our list.

From the data you have reported it appears that the writer has somewhat been selective and vague.

When they say ‘per visitor’, do they mean per person or per family? At $150 per night, are they reporting on caravan sites or selectively reporting cabins? How many Grey Nomads will be turning off their smartphones? If they are like us, the on-board electronics includes not only the smartphone, but a tablet each plus a laptop computer, which all get used daily.

The writer refers to ‘holiday parks’. They are significantly different from the caravan parks favoured by Grey Nomads. I have no doubt that younger families do like the bells and whistles of such holiday parks, but in the world of true analysis, they need to differentiate between the two types.

Only then will we be appreciated for the amounts we return to the regional economies.

Regards, Eric.

More Travel Costs

J

and includes food, fuel and accommodation, ust some feedback following the news story on what’s being spent in regional Australia. On although we didn’t do any tours. our trip from Perth to Queensland and back All the best, Tina and Stuart. we averaged out to about $180 a day. That’s for two, so $90 each. That’s also with no free camping ...continued.

On your mind | 13 ...continued.

Thanks Eric, Tina and Stuart, and to everyone who wrote it following last issue’s News-section ‘report’ on the financial benefits being delivered by travellers to regional Australia. Everyone’s figures are a long way short of the supposed $500-plus per person per night the report based its figures on. This simply goes to prove there is a lot of misinformation out there being peddled by people and organisations with their own agendas. It shows

you need to be careful what you accept as ‘fact’ and where possible check the references before passing information on. Unfortunately, in our short attention span world beset with self-proclaimed ‘authorities’ it’s easy to be caught out. We need to apply the Latin term Caveat Emptor to what we ‘buy’ intellectually as well as what we purchase: Buyer Beware indeed…

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14 | On your mind

Parking Mad

F

ollowing your comments on parking fines in NSW in the letters section of Issue 106 (The Riddle), I thought you’d be interested in this.

I wrote sometime back to the ACT Government concerning our inability to park within a parking space within the ACT. They wrote back to me quoting from the Australian Road Rules February 2008 version and provided a copy of page 205, from which I quote below. A statement was also made that these were the rules Australia wide. Although I can’t find it now, as I remember, they also confirmed that when parking, only the front bay, meter space required a payment. Under the sections as written and copied below :Restrictions on stopping and parking Part 12.

Division 10 Other parking related rules.

211 Parking in parking bays.

(2) The driver must position the drivers vehicle completely within a single parking bay, unless the vehicle is too wide or long to fit completely within the bay.

(3) If the vehicle is too wide or long to fit completely within a single parking bay, the driver must park the driver’s vehicle within the minimum number of parking bays needed to park the vehicle.

Regards, Keith.

Thanks Keith, very interesting indeed. Interestingly, I found the following disclaimer in The Australian Road Rules document: "Legal status of the Rules Readers of the Australian Road Rules must determine the extent to which the Australian Road Rules have the force of law in the States and Territories of Australia by examining the laws of each State and Territory on the subject.

In the absence of any such law, the Australian Road Rules reproduced in this publication have no legal effect in a State or Territory".

Like so many aspects of our daily lives it seems National, State and often Local Government or Agency interests conflict and/or contradict. I think the bottom line is to be aware of what the rules are in the State or Territory you most presciently travel in, and to pay careful attention to what’s written on parking signs. While I think you’d be unlucky to receive a ‘ticket’ for being oversize, I’ve seen enough inconsiderate motorhome and caravan owners’ parking efforts to believe more should be issued. Common sense is probably the best guide, especially relating to impacts on traffic flow and others parked nearby.

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16 | News

OWNER REVIEWS WANTED!

i

Motorhome is looking to introduce a new regular feature and we need your help! We’re looking for owners of one to three-year-old motorhomes or campervans who can provide a factual, objective and balanced rundown of their ownership experience. Not intended as a forum for the ‘disgruntled few’, we’re looking to provide readers with what are effectively

long-term road tests of current model vehicles to help buyers make better informed choices. Articles should be 500-1000 words and as a sweetener we’ll pay $50 for each published review! If interested please email richard@imotorhome.com.au with vehicle details and we’ll take it from there.

AVIDA TORQUAY

A

vida recently launched what it’s describing as “A new level of luxury with the B-Type Torquay motorhome, built on the stylish Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and with seating and berthing for four people.”

Avida’s sales and marketing manager Billy Falconer said, “The new Torquay B 7954 SL includes a long list of luxury standard features both inside and out. The aerodynamically moulded front and rear caps along with Avida’s unique sandwich panel construction floor, walls and roof provide a sleek and stylish motorhome that will allow you to discover your dreams in style.”

“There is an abundance of living space in this eight-metre motorhome, which is increased even further by the large full length slide out.

Plus there’s a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with a slide out pantry, large two-door AES fridge and plenty of bench space with a dropdown bench extension to increase the bench space even further for entertaining your guests.

The features continue with an electric lift TV positioned next to the full-length mirrored wardrobe. The TV is on a swivel bracket allowing you to comfortably watch TV from the comfort of the queen-sized bed or you can sit back in the leather upholstered dinette area or even watch from the colour co-ordinated front swivel driver and passenger seats,” Billy explained.

He also said a new range of interior colours for 2017 allows you to personalise the Torquay with a choice of flooring, splashbacks, benchtops, cabinetry colours, fabric collections, along with a “huge” range of external colourmatched decal collections.

“The Avida Torquay is solely built on the Mercedes chassis. The long list of standard features also include items like a 150 W personal inverter system, wine rack, diesel furnace heater, reversing camera, satellite navigation, front sky-view light and glossy apartment style furniture. Outside there’s an external entertainment unit with radio speakers, ...continued.

News | 17 ...continued.

table, 12 and 240-volt power plus provision for a TV. There is also an external shower with hot and cold water and an electric entry step with an illuminated external grab handle,” Billy concluded.

Avida says every new Torquay motorhome has a very important attribute it calls ‘peace of mind’ thanks to its market-leading 3-year or 1 million kilometre factory-backed warranty, 5-year structural guarantee, 2-year emergency roadside assistance and comprehensive nationwide accredited service network to ensure we are with you all the way. For further information contact Avida on 1300 4 AVIDA (1300 4 28432).

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18 | News

CIAA LOBBYING

A

ccording to a report in Caravanning News, the caravan industry’s peak body continues to take its concerns to the corridors of power in Canberra. Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) chief executive Stuart Lamont and government relations and policy officer Julian Harniman recently met with the Minister for Small Business, Michael McCormack.

industry visitor nights, and 13 out of 13 for average length of stay.

Among the items discussed were:

Mr Lamont has said he welcomes the opportunity of working with ministers and their departments with “positive dialogue” so the iconic Australian caravanning and camping industry could continue flourishing.

• The need for local governments to be included in the ‘effects test’ when assessing free camping against competitive neutrality guidelines • The Motor Vehicle Standards Act and the issue of caravans falling under its ‘trailers’ category • Giving the Minister the final say in compliance issues rather than the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission • Noise corridor regulations in terms of how they can affect caravan park development; for example, on the Bruce Highway near Cairns • The issue of the Australian Bureau of Statistics conducting research on hotel accommodation nights but not on caravan industry nights Mr Lamont and Mr Harniman also advised the minister that his Riverina electorate in NSW is ranked 12 out of 13 for the number of caravan

This latest meeting was part of a concerted effort that will see the association hold talks on caravan industry issues with over 12 sitting MPs in the coming weeks. Among them will be Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, the second-most senior officer in the Government.

“We look forward to liaising with Cabinet ministers to showcase the incredible story which is the caravanning industry, and discussing how we can work closely with them to achieve positive outcomes for both the industry and Australia more broadly,” he said.

While iMotorhome broadly welcomes the CIAA’s efforts towards ongoing dialogue with Government to promote the RV Industry as a whole, we’re concerned about at least two of the points listed above: The need for an ‘effects test’, which is likely to be wholly one-sided in favour of CIAA members; and giving the Minister final say over the ACCC, as one individual is more easily ‘swayed’ by personal lobbying/ relationships than an organisation.

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20 | News

CLASSIC CAR RALLIES

A

t the recent Vans from Snow River gathering in Dalgety it turned out one of our own – Colin – is actively involved in organising and promoting classic car rallies and events. We thought it would be of interest to the motoring enthusiast amongst you so here are two

upcoming events. Both are organised and run by the All British Classics Car Club Vic Inc. with the RACV as its major sponsor.

Vehicles entered for the Great Australian Rally must be at least 25 years old and vehicles entered in the Fly the Flag Tour must be from 1982 or before.

The 2017 Great Australian Rally will be held at Mornington Racecourse on Sunday 5 February.

be filled in on-line it must be printed off and mailed to the address displayed on the form.

“Don Kinsey is putting together another great display of vehicles, along with market stalls for the ladies, entertainment for the children, great trade displays for the enthusiasts, and of course perfect weather,” Colin said.

“Each year we have increased support from other car/motorcycle/commercial clubs, so please let your club know about this event and register for the club display area. Remember, the best vehicle from the winning club display will be put on show in the foyer at the RACV Melbourne.”

The event will use the same starting points as last year: the Deaf Institute in St Kilda Road, Stud Park Shopping Centre, and the Hastings Marina. A free sausage sizzle will be available at the starting points from 7am (city), 7:15 (Stud Park) and 7:30 (Hastings). Cars will be flagged off at 9 am for the run to the Mornington Racecourse and the racecourse will open to the public from 10 am until 4 pm.

Food and wine will be available there, along with lots of other attractions. Adult (public) entry to the racecourse is $10; children under 14 years are free and entry fees are donated to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. For an entry form Click here but note that while it can

The 2017 RACV Fly The Flag Alpine Tour is being held from Sunday 19 to Saturday 25 March, 2017. It’s proudly sponsored by the RACV, organised by the All British Classics Car Club and supported by the Association of Motoring Clubs and the Federation of Veteran, Vintage and Classic Vehicle Clubs.

All owners and enthusiasts of collector vehicles (older than and including 1982) are invited to participate in the RACV Fly the Flag Alpine Tour – which is limited to 200 vehicles – but for the full tour only. Entries close Friday, 24th February 2017 or when full. Full terms and conditions are contained in the tour brochure, which can be downloaded by clicking here.

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22 | News

DUBBO LEASE RENEWALS

D

ubbo Regional Council has granted new 10-year approvals to operate caravan parks and primitive camping grounds at Lake Burrendong and Mookerawa Waters. Council administrator Michael Kneipp said the move recognised the more professional approach now being taken to manage the parks since NSW Crown Holidays Parks Trust assumed the role.

“The parks were subject to a review to assess and report on applications for approval to continue operation of the respective caravan parks and camping grounds,” he said. “The review supported granting of a new consent subject to conditions to ensure compliance with regulations.” Mr Kneipp said millions had been spent improving the parks in recent years and he expected more big improvements during the next four or five years.

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24 | News

LIMITING OVERSTAYS semi-permanent campsites and even erecting Keep Out signs at Wuruma Dam near Eidsvold, where overnight camping is free.

T

ravellers overstaying their welcome at a popular dam in Queensland has resulted in a two-week camping limit. The news comes amid reports of travellers setting up

UDDER DISMAY

SunWater said it had introduced new restrictions “to address overcrowding and to promote more equal access. These new lengthof-stay rules will help alleviate some of the strain on facilities and provide a consistent turnover of campers, which will give everyone more equal access to the site,” it said. Similar restrictions have already been introduced at Burdekin Falls and Eungella dams due to long-stay campers.

A

uthorities have reportedly banned farmer Rowen Carter from squirting raw cow’s milk from the udder into children’s mouths during milking demonstrations at his awardwinning Huon Valley Caravan Park in Tasmania.

“There is always great excitement on milking days when the warm milk straight from the cow’s udder is squirted into the mouths of the willing volunteers,” he wrote on the park’s Facebook page. “How can something that brings so much joy be so wrong?”.

PROTESTS PLANNED

A

Grey Nomad is planning to protest to authorities over locals allegedly squeezing out genuine travellers by continuing to set up permanent caravan and camping sites at Reeves Beach free camping area in Gippsland, Victoria, then leaving them unoccupied.

“Parks are for everybody, not just the selfish few who abuse them,” the angry caravanner wrote on the internet’s biggest caravanning chat forum. The campsite, between Woodside and McLaughlin’s beaches, is part of Parks Victoria’s network of 105 National and State Parks that provide free camping.

26 | News

MANAGERS WANTED

P

et-friendly Heritage Caravan Park in Alice Springs, which made headlines when it scooped a $9500 Government grant to build a ‘doggy daycare centre’ is looking for new managers. It has advertised for a full-time live-in couple to manage the park, which offers a recently installed selfservice dog wash and new off-leash area. “We are one of the most pet-friendly parks around, and with all the National Parks around here there are many places you can’t take pets.

Some of our guests do not want to leave them tied up all day so we decided to build this doggy daycare centre to make things easier for them”.

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32 | Day Test: Jayco Conquest FA.25-1

SURPRISE CONQUEST!

Jayco’s Conquest FA.25-1 is a surprise package well worth investigating…

by Richard Robertson

Day Test | 33

Jayco has done a nice job of integrating the Conquest’s body and cab. Even though it’s a C-class the Luton peak over the cab isn’t excessively bulbous, while the optional metallic paint and decal package, plus black alloy wheels and side-steps add style – at a cost. The bedroom slideout is a good size and provides extra room without adding too much weight or complexity.

U

ndoubtedly the best know Australian RV brand is Jayco. It sells something like half of all new caravans and while the company is a smaller player in the motorhome market, smaller is a relative term.

Out on the open road it’s never long before a blue-jay emblazoned motorhome zips by and they’re a familiar site in caravan parks and freedom camping areas right across the country.

Jayco’s motorhome range is split between the Conquest and Optimum; the former with six models and the latter with just two. In this review we’re taking a look at the Conquest FA.25-1. That’s F for Fiat, A for AL-KO (the chassis maker), 25 for approximate length in feet, and -1, um, because it’s the first in the FA series (okay, I’m guessing a little with that last bit). It’s a four-berth, four-seat C-class motorhome that’s actually 26’ 3” (7.99 m) long, comes well equipped and has a highly liveable

floorplan. If you’ve only equated Jayco with bargain-basement you’re in for a surprise…

Popular Power

A

s Jayco is Australia’s biggest RV manufacturer, so Fiat’s Ducato is our most popular motorhome base vehicle.

Why? Engineering-wise it’s designed to be a motorhome and so includes things like factoryfitted swivelling cab seats (the best in the business), wiring specially routed for ease of body construction and on the larger models, a 120-litre fuel tank for extended touring.

In this model – a Ducato 180 Multijet – it comes from a 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel producing a class leading 132 kW and 400 Nm. Drive is via the six-speed Comfort-Matic robotised manual transmission to the front wheels, as-sisted by traction and electronic stability controls, ABS braking and a raft of

34 | Day Test other safety features. It’s proven, car-like to drive and understandably popular.

Chassis Matters

F

iat Ducatos normally come as a complete cab and chassis unit.

However, German engineering firm AL-KO offers a unique aftermarket motorhome chassis that better Ducatobased motorhomes use. German designed and built but assembled like a big Meccano set at its Melbourne factory, the AL-KO Motorhome Chassis (AMC) is a terrific unit.

Lower, wider and with unique independent rear suspension, each chassis is designed in cooperation with the motorhome manufacturer to accommodate the underfloor tanks, plumbing and weight distribution unique to their vehicle.

Right: Gas cylinders are on a handy slideout tray, although unusually, located on the kerb/outdoor-living side of the vehicle. Below: On the road the combination of AL-KO chassis and upgraded front suspension results in a level ride that’s comfortable and well controlled.

Day Test | 35

Above: Next generation Ducato finally gets cup/ bottle holders and is still a great driver’s machine.

Optional leather upholstery is easy to clean but black could prove hot for summertime travel. Right: The slideout only houses the bed, which when retracted like this can be lifted for bathroom access.

AL-KO also makes a front suspension kit for the Ducato called AL-KO Comfort Suspension (ACS). It raises the front end 40 mm to eliminate the Fiat’s slight nose down stance and dramatically improves ride quality, handling and comfort. To my knowledge only a handful of Australian motorhomes come with it as standard – and this model Conquest is one of them.

Body Matters

T

he most apparent design feature of this motorhome is the driver’s-side bedroom slideout. It’s a good size because it’s large enough to significantly increase interior space when extended, but small enough to limit increased weight and mechanical complexity.

36 | Day Test

The electric awning is a nice touch, as are the LEDs running down the edge, although it does prevent the door from being secured open when extended. Note the small storage lockers – the only real downside of the lower AL-KO chassis. Like the gas cylinders, the hot water system is also and unusually located on the outdoor living side of the vehicle. You’d need to be mindful of its hot cover, especially when using the optional fold-down picnic table.

About the only downside to the AMC is its lower floor height, which reduces space for external storage. Having said that, Jayco still manages to provide a pair of smallish lockers on each side, plus an extra one on the driver’s side with a slideout tray (like the one used for the 2 x 4 kg gas cylinders on the kerb side), which apparently is for a small Honda generator. The problem with the small lockers is they’re too small for things like outdoor chairs or a table, which will need to go inside, under the bed, and be carried through the vehicle.

Jayco motorhomes use five-layer vacuumbonded walls built around an aluminium frame, with high-density polystyrene foam insulation.

The outer finish is high-gloss fibreglass, while the use of two layers of special Azdel board – a composite 50% lighter than plywood that resists rot, mould and water damage – adds to strength and durability. Quality Europeanstyle double-glazed acrylic windows are used

all ‘round and these come with built-in insect and privacy screens.

Extras Matter…

S

tandard equipment is impressive and includes a Coleman Mach 8 rooftop air-conditioner, electric awning and entry step, 120 W solar power system, illuminated grab handle, external gas bayonet point, 2 x 240 V external power points, gas/electric hot water and more. LED lighting is used throughout, while inside there’s even a three kilogram top-loading washing machine in the bathroom.

The test Conquest looked especially impressive and a quick glance at the price list showed why. Styling options comprised black alloy wheels ($2400), alloy side steps by the cab doors ($990) and enhanced body and cab graphics, and metallic paint ($5200).

Along with the tow bar ($850), external picnic table ($241), Roamsafe security door ($990),

Day Test | 37

“If you’ve only equated Jayco with bargain basement you’re in for a surprise….”

38 | Day Test Fiesta awning upgrade ($630), 150 W solar upgrade ($69), external 12 V socket ($103) and Ibis 3 aircon upgrade ($193), they added considerably to the $143,300 drive-away starting price. On top of that there was also leather upholstery ($2990), filtered drinking water to the sink ($199) and a Dometic diesel heater ($2500); all of which took the driveaway price to $160,655, which is still good for such a large, well equipped motorhome.

looking through the Conquest is its caravan heritage. By that I mean Jayco as a company seems caravan focused; there’s only one internal 12 volt socket (and it’s under the bed!) and no 5 volt USB charging outlets, although the thing is full of 240 volt power points. All this points to a caravan-park usage focus that overlooks freedom camping. I don’t believe it’s deliberate, I just think it’s just where Jayco has come from. As the company grows its motorhome range it would be good to see While I’d personally skip some of the big ticket them embrace the unique differences and items it’s still well priced when fully optioned opportunities motorhomes provide and deliver and wants for little. One thing I was surprised even better products. by was the small cost for some upgrades or options. Things like the 150 W solar upgrade, Living the Life! external 12 V socket and drinking water tep inside this Conquest and the filtration should be standard on a vehicle of floorplan is open and spacious. There’s this size/standard – as should be a second excellent headroom thanks to the low house battery – and would add little to the exchassis height and plenty of natural light, factory price. although the woodgrain decor is a little dark.

One other thing that became apparent after It’s saved from being too dark by judicious

S

Decor is pleasant and with the slideout extended there is plenty of walk-through space to the excellent full-width bathroom.

Day Test | 39

use of lighter coloured cabinet fronts in the kitchen, and you do you get decor and upholstery choices when ordering.

There’s good internal storage, with cupboards, drawers and wardrobes in plentiful supply. Meanwhile, thoughtful use of LED strips and other lighting, including white/blue-cycling reading lights, provide a nice ambience. I was pleasantly surprised by the overall fit and finish, and noted during our admittedly brief driving time the distinct absence of internal squeaks and rattles. Mrs iMotorhome commented on how sturdy and secure all cupboard doors and drawers felt and she liked the self-locking latches when things closed.

The floor plan has a driver’s-side dinette that incorporates the swivelling cab seats, and a central kitchen with the working space on the kerbside and the fridge opposite. The bedroom is aft of the kitchen, while across the rear is the spacious bathroom. That just leaves the secondary bed, which is above the cab and tilts up out of the way when not required.

We liked the lounge/dinette because it made

Top: Storage abounds but the overhead cupboards can be a bit of a stretch for shorter folks, while the microwave is also too high for comfort – and safety. Above: The new-style table mount is stable and truly multi-adjustable.

Note the panel above Mrs iM’s head, which controls electrics, monitors systems, etc, plus the audio system to its right. The TV is on a slideout mount behind the grey roller shutter.

40 | Day Test use of the cab seats and was open and airy.

Also, the dining table was sturdy and had a new base that made it truly multi-adjustable.

The substantial table leg could also be removed to open the area right up if desired.

A Jayco trademark that could be improved is the low height of the base cushion on the fixed, forward-facing dinette seat. Just a few extra centimetres would make a real difference.

Mrs iMotorhome liked the kitchen, which she rated as highly usable. While bench space is largely taken up by the combined gas/ electric cooktop with gas grill (no oven) and the stainless steel sink with drainer, there’s good ad-joining workspace atop a long

Right: Kitchen storage is impressive, as is lighting, while the gas cooktop has one electric hotplate for use on mains power. Below: Table size is good and the new mounting lets it reach all diners.

Day Test | 41 Top: Internal storage is cavernous, with cupboards everywhere from the kitchen to the bathroom.

Note easy-clean gloss kitchen cabinets that also complement the overall woodgrain trim. Below: When retracted the bed snugs up against this long storage unit, whose top also becomes a valuable extension of the kitchen bench.

cupboard that runs between the kitchen and bathroom. It basically continues on from the kitchen, plus the dining table is just across the aisle. Only a flip-up bench extension is missing.

While there’s plenty of storage above and below the kitchen bench, a negative is the position of the microwave, mounted above the range hood. Perfect for a six-footer like me, for most cooks it’s not only inconvenient (you can’t see what’s happing inside), it’s also dangerous when removing hot food.

This is a common design issue far from unique to Jayco and one the industry as a whole needs to address.

Across the aisle the 186-litre 2-door fridge sits in a tall unit behind the dinette.

It’s a 3-way device running off mains or 12-volt power or LPG and is a generous size well suited to longer term travel.

Later on…

T

he east-west queen bed has its head in the driver-side slideout. With the small bolster cushion removed its foot butts up against the long cupboard on the kerbside wall when the slideout’s closed, but the base and mattress can easily be lifted for walk-through access to the bathroom.

The bed is a good size and has an orthopaedic slat base plus an innerspring mattress. There’s generous wardrobe and cupboard space on both sides plus a

42 | Day Test Right: The standard 3 kg washing machine is sure to prove a popular inclusion. Note the flip-up bench top and good storage alongside. Below: The shower is a domestic sized one-piece fibreglass unit that is spacious and should be leak free. A concertina door provides bathroom privacy when required. window above the bedhead; all of which makes for a well set-up bedroom. Lifting the bed reveals decent storage plus the 100 AH house battery and a box for a second one.

The bathroom, which runs right across the back of the Conquest, is a beauty. To the right of the entry door is a domestic sized shower that’s a one-piece moulded unit.

It’s well quipped with quality fittings and should prove leakproof and long-lasting. The handbasin is freestanding contemporary item that sits on the spacious vanity, opposite the entry door, and is backed by a huge mirror.

There’s capacious storage throughout, while the loo sits against the wall on the left. Next to it, in the driver’s side rear corner, is the aforementioned washing machine and it’s covered by a hinged bench section when not in use. All-in-all this is one of the most spacious, well designed and equipped bathrooms we’ve seen.

Verdict?

J

ayco has come a long way and the Conquest FA.25-1 proved something of a surprise. With its specially engineered chassis, uprated front suspension and impressive level of standard equipment, plus spacious and easy-living layout, it will suit a wide range of buyers. It’s also backed by a huge company with dealers and service centres everywhere. All-up I think it’s a package that will surprise and delight more than just a few buyers, as well as conquer their hearts…

Day Test | 43

“The bathroom, which runs right across the back, is a beauty. The handbasin is a freestanding contemporary item that sits on the spacious vanity and is backed by a huge mirror.�

44 | Day Test

Specs GENERAL Make

Jayco

Model

Conquest FA.25-1

Type

C-class

Berths

4

Approved Seating

4

Licence

Car

VEHICLE Make/Model

Fiat Ducato with AL-KO chassis

Engine

3.0 L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

132 kW @ 3500 rpm

Torque

400 Nm @ 2500 rpm

Gearbox

6-speed Comfortmatic automated manual

Safety

ABS, ESP, Traction control, driver/passenger air bags

Fuel

120 L

WEIGHTS Tare Weight

3902 kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

4490 kg

Max Payload

588 kg

Braked Towing Capacity

1500 kg

DIMENSIONS Overall Length

7.99 m (26’ 3”)

Overall Width

2.39 m (7’ 10”)

Overall Height

3.12 m (10’ 3”)

Internal Height

2.10 m (6’ 11”)

Main Bed

1.90 m x 1.48 m (6’ 3” x 4’ 10”)

Luton Bed

2.10 m x 1.48 m (6’ 11” x 4’ 10”

Dinette Bed

N/A

Day Test | 45

Specs

Pros…

EQUIPMENT Slideout

Bedroom

Awning

Carefree Freedom electric

Entry Steps

Electric

Cooker

Smev 3 x gas, 1 x electric cooker with gas grill and oven

Rangehood

12 V LED with twin fans

Sink

Stainless steel

Fridge

186 L 2-door 3-way Dometic RM4605

Microwave

Sphere

Lighting

12 V LED

12 V Sockets/USB Outlets

1 x 12V

Air Conditioner

Mach 8 Coleman

Space Heater

Optional

Hot Water System

Suburban gas/electric

Toilet

Thetford cassette

Shower

Separate cubicle

CAPACITIES Batteries

1 x 100 AH

Solar

120 W

LPG

2 x 4 kg

Fresh Water

120 L

Grey Water

75 L

Hot Water

22 L

Toilet

19 L

• Value • AL-KO chassis and suspension • Modern, easy-driving Fiat Ducato • Standard equipment • Liveability • Brilliant bathroom • Spaciousness • Practicality

CONs…

• Limited size external storage • Reaching overhead cupboards and microwave • 1 x 12 V and no USB charging points • Single house battery • Low dinette seat height • Some options should be standard

ManufactureR Jayco 1 Jayco Dr Dandenong. Vic. 2175 T: (03) 8792 2000 W: www.jayco.com.au

Click for Google Maps

PRICE From

$143,300

As Tested

$160,655

Warranty – vehicle

3 year/200,000 km + 3 yrs roadside assist

Warranty – motorhome body

12 months (appliances as per manufacturer)

Supplied thanks to…

Click for Google Maps

Jayco Sydney 63-67 Glossop St St Marys. NSW. 2760 T: (02) 9623 1971 E: sales@jaycosydney.com.au W: www.jaycosydney.com.au

46 | Technical

BROKEBACK RESPONSE Firestone replies to our Brokeback Mounting article in Issue 104…

by Paul Fessel, light duty aftermarket channel manager, FSIP

Technical | 47

A

s a company with more than 75 years of research and development on technologically advanced air springs for the global marketplace, we at Firestone Industrial Products took issue with the recent article (Brokeback Mounting), in which the author suggested that air springs equipped to a utility vehicle’s chassis act like “jackhammers,” resulting in breakage. This is simply untrue, as is evidenced by billions of road miles on heavy trucks, trailers and buses equipped with air springs that do not fall prey to the outcomes described in the article.

What is true, unfortunately, is that many believe that equipping a vehicle with air springs will give it greater towing capacity than can realistically be achieved. This results in overloading and the types of chassis breaks depicted in this article. In fact, independent analysis commissioned by one of our Australian customers confirmed that air springs have little to no effect on the distribution of stress within the chassis rails, and that excessive load and/or unusual operational circumstances is usually the cause of breaks or bends.

When these types of breaks occur it is not the fault of the air spring, as even during the dynamic rate build up the forces on the frame cannot exceed that applied by the load above. The simple fact is that it is almost always the vehicle load that causes a chassis to break, regardless of whether an air spring or factory suspension is in use.

Collyn Rivers replies…

F

irestone Industrial Products correctly emphasises that air springs are used with every success on heavy trucks, trailers and buses, and proven over vast distances without (to quote) falling “prey to the outcomes described in the article.” I

Incorrect set-up, overloading and poor driving are the culprits behind the spate of dual-cab ute chassis failures. Properly set-up, airbags provide valuable supplementary ride control.

48 | Technical

Airbags come in all shapes and sizes and have been proven over billions of kilometres and decades of use right around the world. totally accept that they have done that for many decades. My article does not suggest otherwise. I would go further than Firestone by noting that the above are areas where air springing is ideally suited.

In essence what Mr Fessel is discussing is the correctly specified and engineered use of air spring products (and that is not in question). My article, however, addresses the very issues to which he correctly refers:

Air sprung suspension can be adjusted (manually or automatically) to cope with major load variations. Further, by selectively varying the ‘spring rate’ rear/aft it can usefully move the roll couple to ensure handling is less affected by load variation (I had personal experience in this area whilst working for Vauxhall/Bedford Research Division). Air springing is also invaluable in enabling ride height to be adjusted, as for buses and coaches.

“What is true unfortunately, is that many believe that equipping a vehicle with air springs will give it greater towing capacity than can realistically be achieved. This results in overloading and the types of chassis breaks depicted in this article.” This spells out the very intent of my article.

In these applications the units are designed such that the non-linear characteristic of air suspension is not an issue, nor is the linearity of steel spring suspension necessarily a plus.

A substantial after-market industry has come into being on the dubious assumption that the suspension of (in particular) 4WD vehicles is inadequate. On that is predicated that such ‘inadequacies’ can be remedied by fitting longer and/or higher rate springs and/or air bags. It may be done to enable owners to illegally overload their vehicles.

Or be done for virtually ‘cosmetic’ motives.

Technical | 49

This camper had no airbags, and standard suspension. The chassis failure was likely due to weight distribution and overloading issues, coupled with poor/aggressive driving.

Such assumptions may be reinforced by claims (all readily found by Googling) such as, “Up to 225-450 kg of extra weight bearing support”. Another, (promoting Firestone’s as well as other products) recommends adding air springs to “4WDs with roof racks and loaded for Outback travel”.

In many cases air springs are self-fitted by people buying the product with no likely knowledge of their (typically) substantially non-linear characteristics.

If this is done – and the units compressed to the upper end of their deflection, particularly in a typically overladen situation, my description of ‘jack-hammer’ operation during, for example, crossing a raised cattlegrid at high speed is not unreasonable. This is not least as the forces are proportional to the square of the speed. Anyone who has travelled extensively in the Outback will have encountered this situation.

During the design process of any new vehicle prototypes are subject to long-term testing that simulates conditions that are

typically in excess of the intended (and specified) loading. Because of this, sanely distributed loads of the vehicle’s rated capacity may be carried with no need for modification.

Non-expert addition of heavier suspension elements (no matter of what form), and particularly at the rear-end only, comprises not only chassis integrity and suspension longevity, but because it moves the roll couple rearward it affects the critical understeer/oversteer balance. In extreme cases it may cause a vehicle towing a caravan to jack-knife.

As Mr Fessel himself usefully points out – this is an issue that original equipment manufacturers are aware of, but over which they have no control. It can thus be, and is here, argued that technical writers (and publications like imotorhome.com.au) need to warn unwary buyers of such situations and possible consequences. For an overall view of this please refer to my book Caravan and Tow Vehicle Dynamics, available from my website here.

50 | Technical

POWER PLAY! Fiat powers up for 2017 with a new Ducato engine that promises much…

Technical | 51

F

iat Professional has announced a new Euro 6 emissions-compliant 2.3-litre turbo-diesel for the Ducato in 2017.

Ducato turns 35 next year and although it hasn’t been available in Australia or New Zealand all that time it has certainly carved out an enviable niche in our local RV markets over the last decade. The new move sees the end of the popular 3.0-litre engine, but buyers can take heart because the new engine retains the same power while claiming to reducing fuel consumption by close to 20 per cent.

Importantly – and unlike other brands – the Ducato’s new engine doesn’t require the

addition of AdBlue fuel additive to meet its emissions targets.

“The new Multijet2 Euro 6 engines implement state-of-the-art technology, developed specifically for Fiat Professional to meet legal requirements and be ideal for Fiat Ducato motorhomes,” said Fiat Professional spokesman Denis Mahoney.

State-of-the-Art Technology

F

or the new MultiJet2 Euro 6 engines used in motorhome applications, Fiat Professional says it has capitalised on its leading position to develop the solution

" The Ducato’s new engine doesn’t require the addition of AdBlue fuel additive to meet its emissions targets. "

52 | Technical most suited to all needs of motorhome customers by implementing one-of-a-kind technology: Low Pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (LPEGR). This technology intercepts the exhaust gases after the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and returns them to the combustion chamber via a low pressure circuit.

This has two advantages: it abates nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by decreasing the combustion temperature and it saves fuel by ensuring better efficiency of the turbine.

“Fiat has adopted a single approach aimed at identifying the best solutions and picked LPEGR. This technology respects the current Euro 6 standards and offers better advantages for motorhome bases compared to the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology used in the past on Fiat Professional solutions dedicated to passenger transport,” Denis explained.

Above: How the new LPEGR system works. Below: Top-rated version of the new 2.3-litre engine matches the power of the outgoing 3.0-litre unit.

Key to the new design is rational design, meaning there are no tanks or additional systems compared to Euro 5 engines (so no AdBlue refilling), which implies simpler maintenance and no increase of vehicle weight. The new Euro 6 engines are claimed to be top-in-class in terms of fuel efficiency and deliver high torque at low rpm, which is a essential for motorhome use.

Facts and Figures

T

he new 2.3-litre Multijet2 engine will be offered in two states of tune: 150 hp and 180 hp (although why Fiat persists with horsepower ratings is unclear).

“The 2.3-litre Multijet2 150 hp improves performance over the outgoing 2.3-litre/150 hp Euro 5 engine and increases peak torque by 30 Nm. It delivers 380 Nm from 1500 through to 2500 rpm. Fuel consumption is said to be reduced by 3% compared to the previous version and 29% less than Euro 4.

The more powerful 2.3-litre Multijet2 180hp delivers the same torque and power – 177 hp and 400 Nm – as the earlier 3.0-litre engine but consumes nearly 20% less fuel (and 29% less than Euro 4), meaning payload can be increased by 40 kg. It’s also worth

Technical | 53 noting maximum torque is available between 1500 and 3000 rpm, providing a wide, flat and highly usable torque curve.

Cruise control will incorporate a speed limiter function that sets a maximum speed the vehicle can reach and will be invaluable in towns as well as on the open road. Fiat has also added “This outstanding result is also obtained by an improved double-ames flywheel it says will means of dedicated developments focused on reduce engine vibration and provide a smoother improved turbocharger aerodynamics, a special ride. steel crankshaft, reinforced pistons and a larger capacity fuel pump. It is ideal for large and iMotorhome has been promised priority access heavy motorhomes and for users seeking the to drive both engines in early 2017 and we’ll highest level of performance,” Denis concluded. report back on this promising development as soon as possible. Given the Ducato’s popularity the new engines are a major development, More Improvements especially their promise of significant fuel ther new features on the Euro 6 savings and emissions reductions without compliant 2.3-litre Multijet2 engines the need for a fuel additive. Fiat Professional include a new 200 AH alternator (up did, however, ask us to note that the supplied from 180 AH) that promises 10% faster battery fuel consumption data always refer to vans in recharging. Importantly this isn’t a Smart mixed-cycle driving. alternator, which can negatively impact house battery charging.

O

Fiat’s factory produces around 1000 engines per day – almost enough to power all new motorhomes sold in Australia in a year!

54 | Events: 32nd Illawarra Folk Festival

Get your dancing shoes ready for what promises to be a ‘World Music Mecca’ of folk music…

By Sharon Hollamby

T

he Bulli Showground in Wollongong’s northern suburbs is once again the venue for the Illawarra Folk Festival. With the theme being the open road, the 2017 event is sure to strike the right chord with many musicloving travellers.

The Illawarra is situated an easy hour and a half drive south of Sydney, but you may want to allow some extra time to stop and enjoy the spec-tacular combination of mountains and beaches along the way. The City of Wollongong itself lies on a narrow coastal plain flanked by the Tas-man Sea to the east and a steep cliff face known as the Illawarra Escarpment to the west. The name ‘Wollongong’ is believed to mean ‘seas of the south’ in local Aboriginal language.

Events | 55 The Illawarra Folk Festival, which runs from 12 to 15 January, features an amazing 180 acts from all over the world and promises to be the best event ever. Festival director David de Santi said, “The 2017 festival pro-gram will follow the Illawarra Folk Festival tradition of having something for everyone. If you want to experience the sounds of traditional folk, Klezmer, Gypsy, Bluegrass, Middle Eastern, country, roots, parody, dance and poetry then Bulli Showgrounds is the place to be”.

The Line-up!

International acts include: • Beth Patterson • Dougie Maclean • Ken Field • Jonathon Bob Lynn National acts feature: • Astro cobalt • Karen Lynne Bluegrass Circle • Black Bear Duo • Pete Denahy

The local artists showcase of 71 acts includes: • Five Sad Men • Circus Wow • The Lighthouse Keepers • The Beatmeisters and many more Louisiana-born Beth Patterson began her career in her early teens as a classical oboist and Cajun bass player. Her instrument of choice is now the eight and ten stringed Irish bouzouki (an adaption of the traditional Greek instrument). Known for her razor wit and musical versatility, audi-ences describe her as, “A cross between a cobra and a puppy.” Her per-formances are full of passion, drive and a savage energy that demon-strates her own quirky style. She has performed in 17 countries and var-ious artists have recorded many of her compositions. Beth is definitely one to catch at the festival!

Comedian and Bluegrass artist Peter Denahy was born in Yackandan-dah, Victoria. His song ‘Sort of Dunno Nothin,’ was a YouTube sensation in 2008 and made it to the Aria Top 100. His show features serious bal-lads,

56 | Events ridiculous stories and songs with a twist.

His ability to bring such variety to his shows makes him a popular entertainer for all ages.

Drawing heavily on the traditions of African drumming gives local group the Beatmeisters a raw, primal sound that compels you to dance. Blend-ing their beat with Latin and Arabic influences and melodic percussive instruments, the Beatmeisters always get the audience jumping and the good vibes pumping.

But Wait, There’s More‌

W

hile the amazing talent on offer is guaranteed to keep everyone enter-tained, it doesn’t end there.

The 2017 Folk School will be held on Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 January (preceding the Festival) and will be offering some 40 workshops. The Folk School aims to share folk music traditions and provide opportunities for musicians of all ages to develop their skills and open new musical doors. Registration is highly recommended for these sessions.

Songwriters of all ages are encouraged to enter a free competition. Just submit new compositions with a reference, connection, theme or title re-lated to The Open Road.

Hurry, entries must be in by 30 Nov. There will be a huge array of food and drink stalls along with crafts and even costumes to really get you in the mood. Stick around after the fes-tival for HONK! OZ, a huge, free, three-day event featuring alternative local bands and related arts. HONK! OZ runs from 19 to 21 January.

Events | 57

Fast Facts What: 32nd Illawarra Folk Festival.

Getting There:

Where: Bulli Showground, Bulli NSW.

Bulli is located around one and a half hours south of Sydney via the Princess Highway.

When: Thu January 12th – Sun 15th 2017.

Why: The largest folk festival in NSW promises four exciting summer days of folk, world, roots, Bluegrass, Gypsy, Celtic music, poetry and more, with a large dose of comedy and dance thrown in for good measure!

Ticket Prices: Earlybird • Adults - 4 days - $150 • Youths - 4days - $65 • Under 12 Free

Camping: There are only 400 sites available so book early. There are no power or water connections and limited hot showers. No pets allowed and both the festival and campsite are smoke free zones.

Facilities for the Disabled: Disabled toilets and parking are available and all but one stage has an area for the disabled.

If assistance is needed please ask one of the helpful staff.

Camping Packages

For powered camping sites, you will need to book into the caravan park.

• Adult - $190

Further Information

• Adult shared - $170

Tickets sales and event organisers:

• Youths shared - $80

Ph: 1300 887 034

• All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Email: info@illawarrafolkfestival.com.au

Folk Music School

Campsite Bookings: Email: info@illawarrafolkfestival.com.au

• 2 day - $85 • 1 day - $55 • Single session $25

Web: www.illawarrafolkfestival.com.au

58 | Mobile Tech

Summer Weather Eyes How best to keep a weather eye out this summer‌

By Emily Barker

Mobile Tech | 59

S

ummertime in Australia is a hot tumultuous time, and not just because the fat man in red is preparing to make his way Down Under. Our weather can throw some impressive curve balls; heatwaves, cyclones, floods, bushfires and severe storms all have the potential to seriously derail our plans and place us in genuine jeopardy.

Keeping abreast of often rapidly changing conditions is the best way to ensure the safety of yourselves and your property.

The following two apps are both basic in nature, but provide essential information to help you plan, prepare and travel safely throughout the summer – and beyond!

BOM Weather Cost: Free Size: 14.3 MB It’s been a long time in the coming but The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has finally launched its own app. It’s common knowledge that the data, tools and visual information offered on their website are the most up-to-date, informative and easily understood. Now it’s all conveniently available on your smart phone or tablet.

Available for both iOS and Android, this app offers a wealth of information, succinctly presented. It’s not going to win any fancy industry design awards but its interface is refreshingly simple and easy to navigate. The lack of bells, whistles and fanfare is a positive in my view; it’s a weather app, not Netflix! It’s also been reported via the reviews that there are some technological teething issues, which are to be expected with any new app, although I haven’t experienced any yet. Generally, if you can persevere, any issues will be resolved by the next update.

This app offers a clear snapshot of your local and national weather and if you enable location

services it can track your position within an accuracy of six kilometres. Alternatively you can search for an area via name or postcode.

There is the ability to save favourite locations for easy future reference and this is as simple as tapping a star.

For each location it presents the current conditions and temperature, the feel-like temperature and the expected evening forecast. There’s a detailed 24 hour condition report that includes temperature, wind speed and direction, and a chance-of-rain percentage. You’ll also find a six-day outlook, National Warning summary (including road alerts) and a live rain radar, with, where possible, a selection of views. It’s important

60 | Mobile Tech to note that weather and warnings will not update while offline or out of mobile range, but luckily the six-day forecast presents a detailed outlook when tapped.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology does a fantastic job of both forecasting and communicating weather warnings, but there is definitely room for improvement within this app and I’m sure with time we will see it evolve. In the meantime, this is one smart tool that can be relied upon to keep you alert and informed of your current and expected weather situations.

Fires Near Me Cost: Free Size: 9.3 MB Developed solely by the NSW Rural Fire Service this app presents submitted information on bushfires from all the participating fire agencies throughout Australia and New Zealand, in what is obviously a pioneering and innovative public safety effort. During peak fire season this app could become a valuable central recording and reference tool, and its potential is clear.

Featuring an easily navigated and simple interface devoid of glitz or glamour, this app is simply a tool to inform and warn people of the presence a bushfire, including its threat level and potential impact.

The app itself uses Google Maps to indicate the presence and status of fires. There is a brief range of information presented with each icon including address and threat level (advice, watch and act) and emergency warning. Further information can be obtained by tapping through to present the governing Shire Council, status, type, area size, department in charge and the time and date of the last update. There is also a link to the Department’s national website for any further

Mobile Tech | 61

information. Fires are also listed by the name of the nearest town in relation to your locations, if available, making it easier to recognise and avoid potential threats and roads affected by smoke hazards.

Surprisingly the NSW Rural Fire Service has produced a range of convenient apps. Apart from this one there is another exclusively covering fires threatening the NSW region; one that enables users to create their own unique bushfire survival plan and even

a firefighters’ pocketbook for the use of NSW RFS volunteer firefighters and staff.

The organisation’s innovative use of digital technology is impressive and progressive and can only improve as more Regional Councils and Agencies begin to participate. The threat bushfires present in Australia and New Zealand are real and significant, and your personal safety can be dramatically increased by being alert and informed.

What's On?

What’s On? | 63 Our new, ongoing round-up of events across Australia for the next three months. From food and wine festivals to music of all types, arts, crafts and more, there’s something for you somewhere, so get planning and get out there!

26 – Jondaryan, Toowoomba Area: Australia Day at the Woolshed. Celebrate Australia Day in true Outback style at the oldest working woolshed in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy a day of festivities and of course a Great Aussie BBQ!

QUEENSLAND

For more Queensland events click here!

4-6 – Airlie Beach: Airlie Beach Festival of Music. This tropical festival has it all going on.

Prepare for a weekend of old school artists taking back the stage and creating sweet sweet music.

Artists include Tim Finn, The Ramones, The Potbelleez, Daryl Braithwaite, Chain, GANGAjang and many more.

NEW SOUTH WALES

12 – Sunshine Coast: Conscious Life Festival.

Queensland’s fastest growing health and wellbeing festival. Free workshops, seminars, demos and live music.

12 – Kandanga: Mary River Festival. Described as one of the friendliest and laid back festivals around. Experience community spirit at its best as neighbours come together to celebrate the natural wealth and abundance brought to the region by the Mighty Mary River.

27 Dec-01 Jan – Woodford: Woodford Fold Festival. One of Australia's largest and most iconic events, the Woodford Folk Festival is a six day and night event. Boasting the largest gathering of artists and musicians in Australia, the programme encompasses the depth and diversity of Australia's cultural, artistic and social expression with music, dance, cabaret, circus, comedy, workshops, debate, street theatre, films, forums and visual arts.

20-22 – Yandina: The 21st Annual Ginger Flower and Food Festival. Delight the senses with three spectacular days of food, flowers and entertainment for all. A must-do for foodies and garden lovers alike!

4-6 – Byron Bay: Byron Latin Fiesta. Enjoy a feast of Latin dance workshops and parties, with international, national and local instructors and performers!

5-6 – Millthorpe: Millthorpe Garden Ramble.

Enjoy a feast for the senses as you’re invited to ramble your way through open gardens, craft studios, cellar doors and eateries throughout Millthorpe and surrounds.

5-6 – Scone: Scone Literary Long Weekend.

With a motto of ‘Maintain the Page’ and a mission to promote books and to nurture a love of literature, the Scone writer’s festival has something for everyone.

6 – Port Macquarie: Oysters in the Vines.

What more could you ask for than a celebration of oysters and fine wine? Live music, gourmet food, a picturesque vineyard setting? This is one event not to be missed!

5 – Warrumbungle Area: Crooked Mountain Concert. Hosted by NSW National Parks in Australia’s only Dark Sky Park; enjoy an evening of Hillbilly inspired music, dancing and star gazing!

11-13 – Narooma: Narooma Boats Afloat.

Celebrate traditional boats in all their varied forms, from clinkers and putt-putts to launches, cruisers and yachts. Held on and around the pristine waters and colourful boat sheds of Wagonga Inlet in Narooma on the NSW South Coast.

12 – Wollongong: Viva La Gong. Celebrate Wollongong's cultural life and creative identity with a vibrant art and community festival.

12 – Ballina: Ballina Prawn Festival. Celebrate

64 | What’s On? the home of the big prawn with an iconic and quirky celebration of the rich character and unique features of Ballina.

17-20 – Mullumbimby: The Mullum Music Festival. Tucked away in the hills of Byron Bay, enjoy a weekend of atmospheric music and arts.

19 – Gundagai: Sergeant Parry Day. Head back in time to the wild days of the New South Wales goldfields, where bushrangers and police fought head to head. Held on the banks of the mighty Murrumbidgee River, relive tumultuous history on Sgt Edmund Parry Memorial Day. 26-27 – Macksville: Nambucca River Festival.

Celebrate the richness and diversity of the beautiful Nambucca Valley with a classic festival focused on high energy water activities showcased upon a River Stage unlike no other.

1-4 – Eastern Creek: MotorWorld Sydney. Check out the latest cars and motorbikes on track, street and off-road circuits at this new family festival!

2-4 – Sydney Olympic Park: Coates Hire Sydney 500. The streets of Sydney Olympic Park with ignite for the final showdown in the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.

10 Dec-30 Apr – Sydney: Egyptian mummies.

Exploring Ancient Lives. Come face-to-face with six ancient Egyptian mummies and discover their stories at Sydney's Powerhouse Museum.

26 – Sydney: Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. This iconic blue water yachting events depart Sydney Harbour as usual on Boxing Day. 31 – Sydney: New Year's Eve. Sydney welcomes in the new year with spectacular fireworks at 9 pm and midnight!

31 – Pokolbin: New Year's Eve at Hunter Valley Gardens. The new year with entertainment, fireworks and Christmas lights.

1-3 – Gulgong: Gulgong Folk Festival. Usher in the New Year with a unique musical celebration as the historic town of Gulgong comes alive. More than 50 musicians will perform at various locations throughout the township amid general festivities, live entertainment, markets and artistic displays.

1 – Tumbarumba: Tumbarumba Rodeo.

New Year’s Day country fun! This is a full APRA Championship Rodeo with a host of fun-filled events including bull ride, barrel race, poddy ride, bucking ponies, saddle bronc and bareback.

7 – Wingham: Wingham Summertime Rodeo.

Prepare for some adrenalin pumping events at Wingham Showground as the Wingham Summertime Rodeo comes to town!

7-8 – Evans Head: Great Eastern Fly-In. Experience a unique Australian aviation event.

Aviators and enthusiasts from all over Australia gather to fly together and exhibit a huge variety of modern and historic aircraft. See also vintage, veteran and WWII Military vehicles on display.

7 – Thredbo: Kosciuszko Craft Beer Festival.

Held Poolside at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel in the heart of the picturesque Snowy Mountains, this festival is your ticket to the latest and greatest in craft beer brewing. Experience brewing demonstrations, home brew competitions, cheese and beer matching workshops and lots of live entertainment.

8-13 – Wagga Wagga: The Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Presenting music for violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar and piano performed by some of Australia’s finest string musicians. This is an exceptional chance to hear top quality ensemble music in an intimate setting.

11-15 – Parkes: Parkes Elvis Festival. Celebrate

What’s On? | 65 the life and music of Elvis Presley with this iconic, officially-endorsed festival. Coinciding with the King’s birthday on January 8th, experience headline international and national Elvis tribute artists, street parades, competitions, markets and much more! The 2017 Festival theme is Viva Las Vegas!

12-15 – Walcha: Walcha Golden Gate Campdraft. Enjoy four days of campdraft action in Walcha. Competitors travel from Queensland, Victoria and across New South Wales to compete for the generous prize money on offer over the campdraft carnival. Trade exhibitors, food stalls and full bar in operation.

12-15 – Bulli: Illawarra Folk Festival. Held over four days with over 170 performers providing a diverse range of music and artistic performances.

Enjoy the intimate, vibrant, community atmosphere the festival is renowned for.

14 – Taree: TasteFest on the Manning. Hosted by the Taree Lions Club, enjoy a feast for all the senses! Showcasing the best the Manning Valley and surrounds has to offer, including craft beer, food, wine, entertainment and music.

15 – Urunga: ArtUrunga’s Sculpture in the Park Festival. An exhibition of over 30 sculptures displayed in Urunga’s beautiful riverside park, with live entertainment and festival fare. Prizes, including a People’s Choice for Best Sculpture will be awarded to winning artworks.

15 – Newcastle: Newcastle Travel Expo. Get the hottest deals and industry expert advice.

16 – Katoomba: Lady Luck Festival. A festival created for rockabilly and vintage enthusiasts!

Showcasing ‘customs and culture’ from the fabulous ‘50s; think fun, fashion, food and entertainment for the whole family, with free admission to bands, market day, hot rod and vintage car show, swing dancing and public dance lessons.

18-29 – Guyra: Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival. Showcasing the proud farming history and local produce, this festival is a celebration of rural NSW life. Featuring antique machinery displays and a military vehicle rally, there’s something for everyone!

19-21 – Wollongong: HonkOz Street Music Festival. Experience three days of revelry in Wollongong, featuring acoustic, mobile and somewhat eccentric street bands. Think Mardi Gras and Carnival, blaring brass and drums, a parade, outdoor jam sessions, New Orleans, Gypsy, Klezmer, funk, folk and jazz all fused together for a sensation for the ears and eyes.

20-23 – Numeralla: Numeralla Folk Festival.

A little festival with a big heart. Held over three days the festival is the last traditional ‘free’ folk festival in Australia. There are no tickets, while all entertainment and camping are free! Join a long weekend of music, poetry, dance, markets, dips in the river, yarns around the campfire and convivial conversation.

20-22 – Thredbo: Thredbo Blues Festival. The Thredbo Blues Festival is a three day boutique festival held in various venues around Thredbo Village. From cosy restaurants, booming alfresco gigs and indoor music hall settings, the layout and variety makes this festival a standout.

21-23 – Corowa: Corowa Federation Festival.

Enjoy the colour and musical extravaganza of the National Federation Festival, scheduled over the Australia Day long weekend. Visitors are treated to an array of fabulous bands, music and festival activities, with markets, buskers, food and wine experiences, a B&S Ball and the old fashioned grand parade along Sanger Street.

28-29 – Katoomba: Wines of the West. Take the opportunity to have a chat with the makers of fine award winning wines from the Orange and Mudgee regions. This event showcases many of the leading wineries, breweries and distillers from the Central West region. There will be tastings, opportunities to purchase wines, entertainment, food stalls, and fun throughout the weekend for all to enjoy.

26 – Carcoar: Carcoar Village Fair. If history piques your interest then this not-so-ordinary village fair is just the thing for you! Listed by the National Trust, the village of Carcoar is rich in history. Relive some of this history with reenactments, talks by historians, Cobb & Co rides and vintage car displays.

26 – Katoomba: Summer Harvest Festival.

Experience the Summer Harvest Festival, with an eclectic program of food related workshops and

66 | What’s On? events from long lunches, beer and wine tasting to the famous ‘Chooks Tour’, plus Village strolls to uncover the best of local providores.

28-29 – Kandos: Kandos Street Machine and Hot Rod Show. An annual action packed event sure to impress any motor-enthusiast.

For more New South Wales events click here!

of Lights. Soak up the Christmas spirit at this annual festive celebration.

27 – Malvern: Melbourne Pen Show. Calling all writing enthusiasts! The Melbourne Pen Show is held by a not for profit incorporated association aiming to promote greater awareness of the use of both vintage and modern writing equipment in the community.

VICTORIA 18 – Melton: Melbourne Toyrun. Toy runs are held throughout Australia and America, traditionally 5 – Port Fairy: Port Fairy AP & H Society hosted by motorcycle clubs in support of the Annual Show. Experience a traditional country Salvation Army Christmas Appeal. Enjoy a fun filled show with all the events, displays and competitions spectacular! loved for generations.

24 Dec-26 Jan – Port Fairy: Moyneyana 5 – Melton: Djerriwarrh Festival. One of the Festival. One of the longest running festivals in largest community events within the City of Melton. Australia; enjoy this annual tribute to summer and It’s a party for the people. Including a vibrant community spirit. The festival runs over five weeks street parade, market stalls, activities for all ages, from Christmas Eve through to Australia Day each gourmet food, stellar main stage performances year! and an impressive fireworks finale!

6 – Croydon: Maroondah Festival. An iconic event that unites a community and presents a fun-filled, entertaining and interactive festival extravaganza.

6 – Wildwood: Husqvarna Motorcycles Wildwood Rock Extreme Enduro. A showcase of Australia's best off road motorcycle riders. Watch the top 100 riders battle for three hours on the hardest course Australia has to offer.

14-17 – Frankston: Waterfront Festival. An open air, all-ages free summertime music event.

Something for everyone at this beachfront community party!

12 – Koroit: Koroit Agricultural & Pastoral Show. Experience all the excitement, fun and spectacle of a country show including cattle competitions, horse events and art and craft competitions.

12-13 (Rural Areas November 19-20) – Melbourne: Melbourne & Peninsula Garden DesignFest. The largest designer open garden weekend held in Victoria. Support local charities while you visit a range of diverse, yet equally spectacular gardens.

21 – Southbank Melbourne: Sugar Mountain 2017 - A Summit of Music and Art. Presented by the Victorian College of the Arts, this is a modern boutique music and arts festival sure to impress the toughest of critics.

12-13 – Woodend: Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Budburst Festival. It’s a spring celebration of fine food, wine, music and entertainment!

22-22 – Werribee: 10th National Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Festival. A festive weekend celebrating equestrian culture and the mighty heavy horse.

26 – Frankston: Frankston’s Christmas Festival

What’s On? | 67 26-30 – Lexton: Rainbow Serpent Festival. A world class music and arts festival celebrating Australia’s unique cultural significance.

For more Victorian events click here!

SOUTH AUSTRALIA 4-6 – Millicent: Millicent Agricultural and Horticultural Show. Join in as the regional community displays and parades the best produce, livestock, craft, creations and exhibitions.

5 – Weetulta: Weetulta Strawberry Fair.

Embrace sweet tradition with this 80 year old fair!

11-13 – Moorook: Riverstock Festival. Voted Community event of the year in 2015 and described as ‘three days of music, fun, food and wine.’ What more could you ask for? Set on the banks of the Magnificent Murray!

19-20 – Adelaide: Adelaide Motorsport Festival. Experience the thrills of by-gone era with a two day festival that celebrates and re-enacts South Australia’s rich motorsport history. Dubbed a “museum-in-motion,” Adelaide comes alive with the sound of classic motorsport.

19-20 – Mannum: All Steamed Up Engine, Blacksmith and Classic Boat Festival. Featuring historical displays, demonstrations and fun filled events this celebration of river life has something for everyone.

19 – Mount Gambier: Mount Gambier Brass Band Festival 2016. The largest country based brass band festival of its kind in Australia!

18 – Edithburgh: Edithburgh Carols By The Sea. Held annually on the Sunday before Christmas, enjoy a classic carols session on the beautiful coast at Edithburgh.

14 – Mannum: Sounds by the River. An iconic Australian music experience with an incredible line

up featuring John Farnham, James Reyne, Daryl Braithwaite, Shannon Noll and Taxiride.

For more South Australian events click here!

WESTERN AUSTRALIA 2-5 – Mandurah: Mandurah Stamp, Coin, Banknote and Postcard Fair. The major Philatelic and Numismatic event in Western Australia, a collector’s paradise!

4-6 – Perth: Conscious Living Expo. Uplift Your Body Mind and Spirit and Explore Healthy Sustainable Lifestyle Choices at Perth's Premier Expo Event.

5 – Perth: Live Lighter Perth Basant Festival 2016. Described as a ‘festival to celebrate life’ it’s a spring celebration of new beginnings and renewed respect for Perth’s rich and varied cultural communities.

13 – Karnup: South of The River - Family Fete and Craft Market. Showcasing local small business and talented craftspeople with amazing products, crafty crafts and creative wares.

20 – Cowaramup: Mili's Spring Sunday. Set in the grounds of Edwards Winery enjoy a day of market stalls, live music, great food and of course great wine!

26 – Busselton: Light the Night. Shed some light and support the Leukaemia Foundation in raising awareness for Blood Cancer.

25-27 – Perth: Event Arcadia. The Arcadia Spectacular is an Australian-first and will combine theatre, circus, music, aerial performance, robotics and pyrotechnics. Transforming recycled military machinery and industrial components into spellbinding new worlds, the Arcadia Spectacular shows are the ultimate immersive experience.

10 – Manjimup: Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival. Experience a full program of events and festivities with special guests, street theatre and long table lunches amid fully laden cherry trees!

68 | What’s On? 10 – Perth: Symphony In The City. Let the region showcase its talents, resources and produce and all the spills and thrills that accompany country spirit!

11-16 – Eaton: Spirit of Anzac Centenary Experience. Presented by the Australian Government and the Australian War Memorial, this free ground-breaking exhibition is touring 23 locations around Australia. Hear, see and be moved by the incredible telling of the story of Australia.

12-15 – Lancelin: Lancelin Ocean Classic. The largest and longest running wind surfing event in Australia. Experience four action packed days of fun and excitement.

20 – Perth: Fringe World Festival. Held over four massive weeks of good vibes and good times, experience a feast for all the senses.

21-22 – Perth: WA Cider Festival. Raise your glasses in a salute to the mighty beverage and quench your thirst for the finest craft ciders available.

featuring the largest working display of arts and crafts in Australia with more than 200 artists and artisans.

19 – Bicheno: Bicheno Food and Wine Festival. One of Tasmania's best food and wine festivals held on a magnificent waterfront site in the town of Bicheno on Tasmania's East Coast.

Featuring outstanding local food, wine, music and entertainment.

28 – Hobart: Taste Of Tasmania. A craft experience like no other! Held over four days featuring the largest working display of arts and crafts in Australia with more than 200 artists and artisans.

6-8 – Cygnet: Cygnet Folk Festival. Set in the picturesque Huon Valley countryside, celebrate Tasmania’s leading gathering of folk and world music, dance, poetry, performance art, food and culture!

20-27 – Hobart: Beer Lovers Week. For the love of Beer and State pride, experience a week of celebrations in honour of the (not so) humble beer!

26 – Devonport: Henley-On-Mersey. Celebrate Australia’s proud heritage and pioneering spirit as well as our unique quirkiness at Henley on the Mersey. Try your hand at archery, whip cracking, sheaf tossing, egg throwing, scarecrow competition and the hurdy-gurdy!

27-29 – Karridale: Western Australian Circus Festival. Step into a whole new world with a three day celebration of circus, comedy and cabaret shows from around the world.

27-28 – Hobart: Beerfest. Experience Tasmania’s most exciting Craft Beer and Food Festival and the grand finale of festivities for Tasmanian Beer Lovers Week.

For more Western Australian events

27-29 – King Island: Festival of King Island.

Location location location! Indulge in a weekend of great music, great food, great people and outstanding views.

click here!

TASMANIA 4-7 – Deloraine: Tasmanian Craft Fair. A craft experience like no other! Held over four days

For more Tasmanian events click here!

What’s On? | 69 NORTHERN TERRITORY

ACT

1 Oct -28 Feb – State Wide: Million Dollar Fish.

In its second season, ‘Million Dollar Fish’ is a tag and release fishing competition with a twist. Open Until the 28th of February, you have the chance to land the fish of a lifetime. Some 101 tagged Barramundi have been released, each with a value of $1000 – except one – who weighs in at an impressive $1 Million Dollars!

11 Nov-17 Dec – Acton: Sunset Cinema Canberra, Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Held at the National Botanic Gardens, experience cinema in a whole new light this summer, sit back, relax and watch the stars under the stars!

13 – Parkes: Country Fair Day. Inspired by the summer exhibition, the Popular Pet Show, the National Portrait Gallery are hosting a country fair!

Enjoy a day out – there will be farm animals to pat, fairy floss to eat, live music and creative activities.

4-7 – Marrakai: Marrakai Mango Festival. Be entertained by all things ‘mango’ while enjoying the natural beauty of the savannah and wetlands of the 19 – Parkes: Wanderlust 108. The world's only area. From Mango cocktails to jumping crocodiles mindful triathlon, with markets, workshops and and all the local twitching delights in-between. festival theme. It’s a field day for your mind, body 12 – Darwin: Charles Darwin Film Festival. An and soul, featuring walking, yoga and meditation. exclusive film festival seeking to embrace the principles of English naturist and geologist Charles Darwin.

Featuring short films, documentaries and music videos 3 – Parkes: Spilt Milk. If experimental art and produced by local Northern Territory Filmmakers. culture is your jam, then combine it with the latest cutting edge music and step outside life’s small 22 – Darwin: Christmas Saltwater Craft Fair. things. Spilt Milk is bringing together some of Fill your Christmas with extra special gifts, buying Australia’s best things: music, food and art, within handmade goods from the people that make the tree lined land them, in the stunning Darwin Waterfront Precinct.

26-29 – Gove: Gove Game Classic Fishing Competition. Pit your strength against a barracuda, sailfish or marlin in the stunning waters off Nhulunbuy over four gruelling days of unforgettable fishing.

5-8 – Canberra: Summernats. Four days of high octane thrills! Australia’s biggest horse power party, with over 2000 elite street machines displaying their prowess.

2 – Alice Springs: Alice Springs Christmas Carnival. An evening of entertainment and Christmas festivities.

4 – Darwin: Carols By Candlelight. Belt out your favourite Christmas carols to kick off the Festive Season in the Botanic Gardens, with choral performances and spectacular fireworks.

10 – Darwin: Darwin Symphony Orchestra – Master Series 4 (Babe). Set to be an amazing experience, the Darwin Symphony Orchestra will perform Nigel Westlake’s magical film score to Babe, live to the film. A special wet season matinee for the whole family that is not to be missed.

For more Northern Territory events click here!

26 – Canberra: Australia Day Fireworks Spectacular. Held on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, experience a spectacular light show celebrating Australia Day! For more ACT events click here!

“Adventure is worthwhile.”

– Aesop

Advertisers' Index | 71

Advertisers' Index 4x4 Motorhomes Australia

13

Paradise Sales & Service

23

AirBag Man

30

Parkland RV Centre

30

Albury Wodonga RV World

27

Redarc 31

Amphibian 30

Robert’s RV World

30

Australian Motor Homes

RV Specialists

30

Australian Motor Homes Information Evening Win a RV Adventure with Avida

3 25 7

Solarscreen 31 Southern Highlands Service Centre

28 31

Ballina Campers

21

Southern Spirit Campervans

Battery Traders Super Store

30

Skytracks 31

Bony Mountain Folk Festival

29

Caravan & Motorhome Books

28

Caravan & Motorhome Covers

31

Duvalay 29 e-Twow Electric Scooters

31

Grey Nomad Tax Advisers

28

Horizon Motorhomes

5

iTech World

30

Keybar Towing

22

Motorhome Doctor

19

Nomadic Solutions

31

Northcoach Equipment

17

Outback Travel Australia

29

OzCampers 28 Paradise Motor Homes

10

Sunliner 15 Taronga Western Plains Zoo

30

Tiffin Motorhomes

31

Trakka 8 Wellington Shire

30

Winjana RV

31

Wirraway Motor Homes

26

SUMMER IN PARADISE! Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and can be driven on a standard car licence. If you’re looking to travel in luxury don’t miss his review.

Project Polly returns, sporting a new Hella LED light bar on a special mount designed specifically for vehicles without a bullbar, plus a headlight globe upgrade and some other little touches. And with a bit of luck, Emily will track down some fun Christmas apps to brighten up your Festive Season and round out 2016.

Next issue kicks off summer Down Under and Malcolm briefly sampled it when checking out the new Inspiration Supreme Limited Edition from Paradise Motor Homes. Loaded with goodies this luxury motorhome is built on a

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Jan 20-22

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Issue 108 will be out on Saturday 3 December.

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Geelong Outdoor Living Show

Newcastle Caravan, Camping & Holiday Expo

Geelong Showground 79 Breakwater Rd, Breakwater. Vic. 3219

Newcastle Entertainment Centre & Showground Broadmeadow. NSW. 2292.

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Open 9:30-4:00 (3:00 Sunday) Parking: Free Adults: $15 Seniors: $12 Kids: U17 Free

Visit Website Click for Google Maps

Parking: Free Adults: $15 Seniors: $10 Kids: U16 Free

Visit Website Click for Google Maps

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Feb 22-27 11-13 09-12 20-22

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Victorian Caravan, Camping & Touring Supershow Melbourne Showgrounds Epsom Rd, Ascot Vale. Vic. • Open 9:30-5:00 (2:30 final day) • Parking: Commercial nearby • Adults: $20 • Seniors: $16 • Kids: U17 free with adult

Visit Website 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.