The most colourful celebrations yet

Caravan Industry Association of Australia proudly waved the rainbow flag alongside Australia’s Gay Nomads for the second year in a row at the 2018 Sydney Mardi Gras, with this year marking the 40th and biggest year of the annual celebration.

With the support of Caravan and Camping Industry Association of New South Wales and Apollo Motorhomes, we demonstrated our support for the LGBTIQ community with a rainbow themed motorhome.

The group were also featured on the televised SBS coverage.

Lynne Hocking, founder of Australia’s Gay Nomads, said the motorhome ‘really stood out’ compared with other floats.

“There’s something about the big motorhome and the thought of camping that just really just got the crowd going,” she said

“It’s so different, the signage and everything is great, it really stands out and it’s the most unusual float.

“As a result of this support we have had some pretty amazing follow up through our Facebook page… Caravan Parks and small businesses are asking to be promoted on our site, and we are trying to have a directory of people which will then be supported by the Rainbow Accreditation Program.

“We have picked up more members and finally cracked more than 1000 followers on Facebook, completely organically through our presence and word of mouth.”

The Caravan Industry Association of Australia Rainbow Accreditation Program recognises businesses who treat all guests and staff in a non-discriminatory manner and provide a safe and comfortable environment for LGBTI travellers.

The niche market has been identified as an important group to support, with the gay leisure travel market in Australia representing approximately $965 million a year.

“The caravanning and camping industry is a very open community and suitable for everybody,” said Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO Stuart Lamont.

“We are very pleased to support the gay leisure travel market.”

For parks wishing to know more about accreditation please contact us on 07 3262 6566 or accreditation@caravanindustry.com.au