Queensland’s peak caravanning body will shine a light on safety at a huge caravan and outdoor expo on the Sunshine Coast.
Caravanning Queensland aims to raise awareness and education of road safety at the annual Let’s Go Sunshine Coast Caravan and Outdoor Expo at Nambour Showgrounds, from August 18 to 20, after 23 lives were lost on the region’s roads last year.
The event will feature dozens of exhibitors showcasing the latest caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes and camping accessories.
A new safety program has been added to the expo, after a devastating year of road fatalities.
And, according to Queensland Police, nine out of 10 vehicles towing caravans were found to exceed their weight limit last year, which prompted Caravanning Queensland to focus on road safety and offer sessions to talk all things safety.
Caravan Trade and Industries Association of Queensland CEO Jason Plant said the data demonstrated the need for safety programs in regional locations like the Sunshine Coast.
“There is no better time to visit the Sunshine Coast Caravan and Outdoor Expo and attend the free Weight and Towing Masterclasses to educate themselves on safe caravanning practices to head off on their next holiday adventures safely, compliantly and confidently,” he said.
The Weight and Towing Masterclasses will be held by experts Jeff Palmer (Tow-Ed), Gary Gardiner (Total Towing Setups) and Dave Lewis (Weightcheck), who will run three sessions per day to talk all things safety.
Mr Plant said the expo was also a great experience for all ‘cara-fan’ enthusiasts wanting to upgrade their current RV, and for families looking to get involved in the caravanning lifestyle.
“There is something for everyone looking to experience a new and exciting RV adventure,” he said.
“There will be more than 90 exhibitors showcasing the very best in recreational vehicles, accessories and modifications, alongside all things outdoors for locals to browse and snap up the latest and greatest gadgets and products suitable for any outdoor adventure need.
“The expo is a fantastic opportunity to see all the latest models of caravans, motorhomes (and) campervans, and (for) industry experts to talk to all in the one convenient location, making it easier to compare different options.”
He said there would also be a daily demonstration of the Walkabout Working Dogs, so spectators can watch a team of working border collies and kelpies interpret instructions from their handlers to round up a herd.
Camp oven cooking enthusiasts will be entertained by bush cook Ranger Nick, who will give daily demonstrations and regale crowds with bush poetry, yarns and ballads.
One lucky visitor to the expo will win a five-night stay in a waterfront campsite (unpowered) for up to four guests at Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp, valued at $470.
Caravanning Queensland is the peak industry body for caravan dealers, manufacturers, camping suppliers, service providers and caravan park operators through two related associations. These are the Caravan Trade and Industries Association of Queensland and the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Inc.
The Let’s Go Sunshine Coast Caravan and Outdoor Expo is at Nambour Showgrounds, 80 Coronation Avenue, from Friday, August 18, to Sunday, August 20. Times are 9am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday, and 9am to 4pm Sunday. Entry is $15 for adults, $13 concession and accompanied school age children free, via Oztix.
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