Friends of Caravanning descends on Canberra

Late last year, we mentioned the first-ever Parliamentary Friends of Caravanning Group had been established at Parliament House, Canberra. The direct purpose of the group is to raise the bar on understanding and awareness of our great industry within the halls of power in our nation’s capital.

Yesterday marked the first event for Friends of Caravanning, with the industry converging on Parliament House from across the country.

Caravan manufacturers, state association leaders, and the National Board gathered at Parliament House to showcase the width and breadth of the industry’s offerings and to discuss with parliamentarians the value we, as an industry, bring to the Australian economy.

The day’s events began with an impressive display in front of Parliament House, showcasing leading-edge designs from Track Trailer, Bruder, OzXCorp, and Jayco.  Ministers and members from across the political spectrum, including the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Catherine King, stepped out of Parliament House to explore some of Australia’s finest RVs, demonstrating the latest in design and innovation and why Australian caravanning product is considered the toughest in the world.

The patrons headed indoors with a packed cocktail event in Parliament House.  Co-Convenors Senator Helen Polley and the Honourable Scott Buchholz set the scene with encouragement about their love for the industry and the people in it; alongside them was the Minister for Tourism and Trade, Hon Don Farell, who took the opportunity to relay to the room the industry’s immense contribution to the tourism landscape.

Designed to replicate a happy hour scene at the caravan parks, there was plenty of good food, cold drinks, conversations and a sing-along with Australian country royalty Adam Harvey on the guitar, making the evening an irresistible temptation for passing by MP’s and Ministers.

CEO Stuart Lamont says the event was an enormous success.

“This was our opportunity to showcase just how much our industry offers to Australia, be it economically, culturally, or through our world-class product, regional dispersal, or manufacturing jobs. Having the right people within the Parliament know about the depth of our contribution is critical,” he says.

“Spreading the essence of caravanning through a good time and good conversation was a key objective, so receiving feedback about how enjoyable and engaging the event was/ is fantastic.

“Our hope is that this sets off the momentum needed to create positive change and continued recognition of our industry.”