The Caravan Show: Recent Episodes
Roy Wyss
The Caravan Show is all about caravans!
Roy will cover all things caravans, speak with manufacturers, review products, interview suppliers and tackle the big issues: weights, maintenance, buying a used caravan, general tips and towing.
We will speak with some Aussie legends, look at caravanning destinations and much, much more!!
Wow. Port Stephens has to be in the top handful of destinations in Australia. In this episode Roy chats with Port Stephens Mayor, Ryan Palmer who is very informative. Tourism is important to Port Stephens and it has plenty to offer. Listen to find out more. Thanks to Port Stephens Council and Mayor Ryan Palmer.
Do you want to make cleaning the floors of your caravan easier? Nathan Johnston has a product that is for you, The Gusto! The product will be available in 2021 but we have snuck in to have a chat with Nathan about how he came up with The Gusto and how it works. Thanks Nathan. We can't wait to do a full video to demonstrate the product.
Towing a caravan is a big responsibility and doesn't come naturally to everyone. Jeff Palmer from Tow-Ed is an instructor and towing expert that shows people how to tow a caravan. His full-day course covers a variety of topics to meet government guidelines: driving, reversing, electric brakes, vehicle setup, weights, mirrors, hooking up, safety checks and more! Adding weight behind a vehicle changes the dynamics of a motor vehicle. It is great that with Jeff's course that the cost is per caravan, so it is a good idea to take your partner. Jeff and Roy also chat about rollovers, common mistakes made and more! Jeff was recently on a Creek to Coast episode that featured the Sunland Caravans Pup. Make sure to check that one out. Thanks for being a great guest Jeff! To book a course with Jeff call 1300 305 660.
Wow. Over the last few days we have published episodes with Bob Katter, Kevin Sullivan and now Aussie icon, Roothy! We think Roothy is one of the true Aussie Outback Legends. In this episode, old mates Roy and Roothy talk about Free Camping and the role that Roothy played in the fight for free camping. They talk about the economic benefits to small towns, they talk caravan parks and of course the conversation turns to Council and Government. Thanks Roothy, you are a bloody legend and we can't wait to have you back on the show.
If you are thinking about buying a caravan and don't know where to start, this podcast is for you. Roy talks about everything you should consider in buying your first caravan. What type of caravan are there? Private vs dealer? What are you going to use it for? What is your tow vehicle? Weights? Warranty? Where to look? Things to look out for and more!
We have fast-tracked episode 50 to help promote Kevin Sullivan's new single release: Against the Tide that will be released on Friday September 18. Kevn has a wonderful story to tell. Formerly a Forensic Police Investigator, 5 children, including 3 youngsters, 18 years travelling the Australian outback doing gigs and now a full-time country music singer! Sounds worthy of a channel nine mini-series! Roy has a great chat with Kevin in this episode about local Australian talent, about the COVID challenges for entertainers, his new release and an outback tour in 2021. As a 'mature' entertainer Kevin has faced many challenges and we think that is where the inspiration for his new song, Against the Tide, has come from. Kevin, you were a great guest and we can't wait to have you back on and maybe even you will perform live for us next time!! Roy will work on his vocals so he can chime in!! Thanks Kevin. To follow Kevin's tour dates and see some of his music check out his website at www.kevinsullivanmusic.com or his Facebook page, Kevin Sullivan Music.
Refrigerators are one of the most common questions we hear about caravans. So in this episode Roy looks at your options and the pros and cons of each of them.
Bob Katter is so much more than the MP for Kennedy in North QLD. He is an Australian political icon, he is a champion for regional Australia, he is a link between our present and our past and most importantly he says it how he sees it. These words simply don't do justice of what Bob has achieved. We could do a whole podcast series just with Bob, he has so many stories and experiences to share. With this in mind, this episode doesn't talk much about caravans, but it does talk about many other things, from manufacturing, mining, politics and everything in between. Roy has been an admirer of Bob for many years and this interview is something that we will remember. Please enjoy this interview as there will never be another Bob Katter.
It never ceases to amaze us when we interview regions with less than 2000 people that are beautiful places to see with amazing things to do. Cunderdin is just one of those places. With a population of only 1500 people you would think there isn't that much to talk about. Well how about Dennis being a 3rd generation (with his son a 4th generation) farmer, working the same land as his family did in 1925! The area offers free camping (1 night), a caravan park and plenty of things to see and do. Gliding, history, the big camera!, the 1968 earthquake remnants of a house, the museum and more! Only 120km East of Perth, if you are in Perth heading nearby, stop and check it out and say G'day to Dennis and the locals. Thanks Dennis.
We have been fortunate to have several real experts as guests: like Andrew from Cruisemaster, Chris from LBS and today we have another one, Ron Stafford from RV Warehouse. This isn't much Ron doesn't know about caravan awnings and annexes. You will realise this by the end of this episode! Like Roy, Ron has a strong passion for Australian manufacturing and the caravan industry. Thanks for being a great guest Ron.
In this episode we chat with Jason Plant, the CEO of CTIAQ (Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland) about his career, responsibilities and the role of the CTIAQ. Of course we cover off wider issues across the industry including the role of Caravan Shows and heaps more!
Did you know Charters Towers is bigger than Tasmania? We didn't. But that isn't the only interesting thing about Charters Towers. You will find Charters Towers about 130km from Townsville and around 5hrs from Cairns. Mayor Frank Beveridge is one of our most interesting guests and has plenty of stories to share. The region is very rich in history, with many stories revolving around gold and when Charters Towers was one of the most populated areas in QLD. Something else that Charters Towers is known for is ghosts. We don't want to spoil anymore of Frank's stories so you will have to listen.
Situated about 800km from Townsville and 1600km from Brisbane, Cloncurry sounds remote but they don't look at it that way. With mining, beef cattle and transport major industries they are also looking to grow tourism. The birthplace of the Flying Doctors is just claim to fame for Cloncurry. Another point of difference is the link to the $10 and $20 notes: make sure to listen to find out about these ones! Greg talks about how there are so many things to do in Cloncurry. 2 caravan parks, an RV park and other options provide accommodation. The 3 major events in Cloncurry are the Cloncurry and District Show, The Stockman's Challenge and the Rodeo! Try and time your visit in with one of these events to make the most of your stay! As Roy says these are real cowboys! When Roy asked Greg about secrets in the area he told us about he didn't know what to say! As they have been voted QLD's friendliest town they don't keep secrets! He did end up giving us something though. Make sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram pages for some great images, scenery, landscapes and events! When you get to Cloncurry you might even find a gold nugget!
In this episode Roy chats with Shellharbour Mayor, Marianne Saliba. The region has a population of 72,000 and is only 1.5hrs from Sydney. Marianne calls herself a grey nomad and loves jumping in her bus with her husband and two dogs. The area has a council managed caravan park in addition to a couple of private parks. Our words can't really do the beauty of Shellharbour justice, if you don't believe us just do a Google search and click on images. Wow! Other things to do including checking out the HARS Aviation Museum (look out for John Travolta! or is that the Mayor's husband, Roy?), maybe a skydive with some of the most amazing views in Australia is your style? Fishing is magic as explained by the Mayor. Lots of fish and whales and even a new marina under construction! Thank you Marianne, you are one of the most passionate Mayors we have interviewed and we loved hearing about your special place.
Gympie is only about 2hrs north of Brisbane and a gateway to Fraser Island and those travelling north from Brisbane. Our guest today is Division 4 Councillor Bruce Devereaux who has recently returned from a trip around Australia in his bus with his family so he understands exactly what The Caravan Show is about. 18 months, 5 kids and 20,000km's! This means that Bruce understands the benefits to a local community of caravan travellers. Gympie has a unique history, with gold being particularly, amazing historical architecture and possibly the jewel in the crown, Rainbow Beach. The Mary Valley Rattler train is a must-see. One of Bruce's secrets in Imbil where he likes to pop in for a coffee with his kids. Oh and we nearly forgot about the beautiful and quiet Tin Can Bay that sits right on the coastline. It was great having a chat with you Bruce: good luck with the gold!! You were certainly one of our most exciting guests and without a doubt the best laugh!
In this episode Roy interviews Sandy O'Rourke from the Narrabri Visitor Information Centre. Located about 560km from both Sydney and Brisbane, Narrabri is an ideal location for tourists from NSW and QLD (subject to border restrictions). Keep an eye out for a giant pink slug and you might even see a yowie! The clear night sky is one of the assets of the region. The CSIRO telescope and the astronomy garden (free admission) are two must-visits. The waterfalls and cliffs at dripping rock sounds amazing. A rich indigenous history along with aboriginal arts and crafts that are showcased just south of Narrabri. Make sure to see the sandstone caves in this area. The area offers 6 caravan parks, local showgrounds and a selection of other sites in the region for your accommodation. Check out Australia's cotton capital while you are there! - so much to see in do in the Narrabri region. We don't have enough space to tell you about it - luckily it is all in this podcast! Thanks Sandy.
Located 2.5hrs south of Perth and a bit closer to Albany, West Arthur isn't that far to go for most West Australians. Today our guest are Councillor Graeme Peirce and Kerryn Chia. Graeme knows all about caravans as the Manager of one of the local caravan parks. The area has one of the lowest populations of the areas we have interviewed so is one of our smallest regions interviewed - but it does't mean it isn't an amazing place! Astro Tourism is a big thing in the area and the views are amazing. Kerryn tells us about The Milky Way and the stunning stars. Traditionally the region has had a strong agricultural base and tourism is an area they are keen to grow. The local cafes and markets will give you some therapy and an opportunity to mingle with the locals. The rail trail sounds amazing especially during spring. We are imagining a lot of open space, quiet and beautiful skies so if you are looking for this in your travel destination, check out West Arthur. Thank you Kerryn and Graeme.
After working in tourism in Carnarvon for 10 years we expected Stephanie Leca sure knows Canarvon. Located 900km north of Perth, Canarvon is one of the more remote locations we have had on the show. But with that remoteness you get benefits. Caravan travellers are certainly well catered for in the region with 7 caravan parks in addition to wilderness and nature camp options. Fishing is amazing in the area so if you are a keen angler make sure to do your research and pack your gear. 600km of Indian Ocean coastline, reefs and adventure activities will tick your boxes. Carnarvon played a central role in the first moon landing - but you will have to listen to find out what! The region offers diverse offerings, from the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, art, history, wildlife including rare birds With border restrictions in place make sure all your West Australians head up to Carnarvon and experience just some of the things on offer. Oh and don't forget the worlds biggest rock! And it isn't Ayers Rock Roy! Mt Augusta is twice the size! Thanks Stephanie for being one of our favourite guests and Carnarvon is definitely on our must-visit list.
After our interview with Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO, Stuart Lamont received so much interest, Roy interviewed Chief Technical Officer, James Field in a wide-ranging interview about James, his role, warranties and issues, caravan shows and a whole lot more!
Darriea has an amazing background in health - one that we can't justify in space: but make sure to check it out. In this interview we talk about some fascinating topics. From Darriea's very interesting family background (including camels...), we touch on her background in health (that she understates) and of course her local secrets! Famous for being one of Australia's most well-known movie, TV and commercial sets: there are plenty of stories to hear, with actors walking along the streets and mingling as a part of the local culture. Mad Max 2 and Priscilla Queen of the Desert are two well-known movies made in Broken Hill. When you visit Broken Hill keep your eyes open for movie stars and also sets that you may have seen on the big screen. Seeing one of the oldest art galleries in Australia, the Palace Hotel, and the Broken Hill festival are just three must do's! It isn't just about the movies though, Broken Hill is a must visit on your travels. We think Darriea has been one of our most interesting guests!
In this episode we chat with Liverpool Plains Information Centre Manager Nikki Robertson. Centrally located in north-west New South Wales and strategically nestled in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, our diverse and abundantly resourceful Shire is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and expands across the vast and bountiful Liverpool Plains. After working in the information centre for 10 years Nikki knows everything there is to know about the area for tourists. The area has a rich railway history including the Australian Railway Monument and Rail Journeys Museum in Werris Creek. Nikki's tells us about Bob's Shed in Quirindi: a must see especially if you are a Peter Brock fan. Others things to see are The Who'd-A-Thought-It Lookout on Who'd-A-Thought-It Hill, sunflowers are big in the region, there are plenty of dining options and local produce. If you are in the area make sure you drop into the information centre and say hello to Nikki!
Mayor Sam Hearn is the youngest Mayor we have had on the show being in his early 30's. His background is not-for-profit and community development has been a great benefit to him in his role of Mayor. With a population of around 170,000 and up to 250,000 across summer, the Mornington Peninsula caters for a large population. Local industry is diverse, across agriculture, wine, heavy industry, hospitality and tourism all playing an important role. With over 1000 foreshore caravan sites in the region it has become a tradition for many Victorians - with million dollar views of Port Phillip Bay on offer. Make sure to put the Hot Springs, some golf and maybe even a maze or two on your list of things to do when visiting the Mornington Peninsula. Make sure to listen to near the end to hear Sam's secret things to do in the region. Note: this interview was recorded prior to stage 4 restrictions.
In this episode Roy chats with Mayor Alan Hall from the Wellington region in Victoria. The region is around 3hrs drive from Melbourne. It features 17 caravan parks and a variety of free camp options. The economy is diverse with agriculture, a RAAF training base and of course, tourism being major contributors. There is plenty to see and do in the central Gippsland area. Fishing (wide variety from the high country to the surf), arts, performing arts and culture, fine dining and a rich history. The beautiful Sale Botanic Gardens, Tarra Bulga National Park, the Port of Sale and 90 Mile Beach are just four must-sees in the region. Iconic pubs are littered through the region, as are wineries, so there is no shortage of things to do! The area has been understated in the past but we don't think will last for much longer! Note: recorded prior to level 4 restrictions.
In this episode Roy chats with the CEO of Caravan Industry Victoria, Rob Lucas. In this wide-ranging interview they cover off Rob's background, the role of Caravan Industry Victoria, industry training, the quality of Australian manufacturing and much, much more! Note: this interview was filmed prior to the stage 4 restrictions in Victoria.
We just happen to be based down the Bruce Highway a short stretch from the Sunshine Coast so we are probably showing our favouritism here - but what an amazing region. The perfect blend of hinterland, ocean, food, wine, entertainment, things for the kids, action, adventure!! Our guest today, Jason Fillipini talks us through all that and more. Jason has great knowledge of not just the region but the whole industry. Listen to find out more.
With Redland City only being a hop, skip and a jump to Brisbane it might be fair to assume it is suburbia. But you would be seriously wrong. Redland City includes 12 mainland suburbs that are very diverse: some near the water like Cleveland, Redland Bay and Victoria Point and greener areas such as Sheldon and Mount Cotton. If you think that sounds diverse then throw a few Islands into the mix! Probably the most well known Island is North Stradbroke that offers so much natural beauty but don't overlook the other Islands that offer their own benefits. Mayor Karen Williams talks us through all of this and more.
In this episode Roy has a face to face sit down interview with Andrew Goddard from Cruisemaster. They cover-off Andrew’s Grandfather, Arthur, how the business has evolved and rebranded, Andrew’s role in the business, their products and testing and heaps more!! Thanks Andrew.
In this episode Roy chats with Lockyer Valley Mayor Tanya Milligan. The Lockyer Valley is well known for it's agriculture and fresh produce (where you can often buy from the roadside). There is also plenty to see in the region with the country feel and benefits while not being that far from Toowoomba, Brisbane or the Gold Coast.
In all of our podcasts with regions all over Australia we have heard plenty of initiatives but this one was probably our favourite. It is called the Grey Nomad Program. Basically if you do approved volunteer work while in the area you will receive free accommodation. Sounds like a win-win! For more information contact the Kimba Visitor Information outlet on 08 8627 2026. Make sure to listen to find out what else there is to do while you are in Kimba. Thanks to Mayor Dean Anderson who tells us about the best free camping in Australia and heaps more.
In this episode we welcome our first guest from Tasmania, Mayor Tim Wilson. The Kentish region includes the world-renowned Cradle Mountain but there is much more to discover, from the local Batman to the iconic local stores and the murals and topiaries. Mayor Tim Wilson shares some great stories with Roy in this episode.
We think that Burdekin Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin is the most passionate Mayor we have spoken with so far. She loved talking about her region so much and she even offered a personal tour to our audience! And when you listen to what she has to say you will understand why. The Burdekin region is close to Townsville, offers amazing diving and fishing opportunities, bird watching, an art trail and heaps more.
In this episode Roy chats with Armadale Mayor, Ruth Butterfield about things to do in Armadale and what makes it an attractive destination to caravan travellers.
We had a ball interviewing Mayor Jack Dempsey who is a real character. There is plenty to do in Bundaberg and what a lifestyle!
If you want to know more about lithium batteries you have come to the right place, and you have found the right man in Chris Carrigan. In this episode Roy talks all things lithium batteries and caravans with Chris.
Golbourn is only 2 hours south of Sydney and with convenient access from the Hume Highway makes it a must visit. Listen to the podcast to find out what Golbourn has to offer.
Did you know the the Cessnock Region has 140 wineries!! But they are not just a one-trick-pony. Watch Roy interview Cessnock Mayor, Bob Pynsent to find out more.
Roy hadn't really had Griffith on the 'must visit' list before this episode but after interviewing Griffith Tourism Manager, Mirella Guidolin, it is now. Hear about the multiculturalism, the food, the events, the history and everything else that Griffith offers caravan travellers.
In this interview Roy chats with Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Sharon Tapscott. After being heavily effected by the fires, the region was then met with COVID-19. This is one of the regions that really need our support so if you are travelling the or around Bega Valley check it out.
With the demand for printed magazines diminishing Max Taylor took his industry knowledge and expertise online and established GORV: an online magazine and website with video content and all the information you could need about RV's. In this episode, Roy chats with Max about that journey and about GORV.
In this episode Roy chats with Caravan Industry of Australia CEO, Stuart Lamont. They cover off the scale of the caravan industry and how important it is to Australia and regional centres. They also discuss many other things related to the industry including the role of Caravan Industry Association of Australia.
You can't get more outback than Boulia! That is what Boulia Mayor Rick Britton told us. Boulia is where the Mayor is a cattle farmer and the road trains are 150m long. Things are certainly a bit different at Boulia compared to what most of us are used to. Boulia just might be the smallest shire (with a population under 500) in Australia, but don't let that fool you as there is plenty to see, even if it is nothing. Pop into the Tourism Centre in town and they will point you in the right direction. The Burke River, the Police Barracks, the night sky, meet real Aussie Bush Characters and I bet even the Mayor will be happy to have a chat with you!! Thanks for your time Rick.
Here all about the amazing Murweh region, from the stunning night sky to the caravan facilities and other things to do in the region. You might even learn where to get a good snag!!
In this episode Roy talks with personal friend and Australian music legend, Issi Dye! Listen to the story, the hits, COVID-19 and more! Make sure to listen to the end to hear one his hits!
Albany is one of the most beautiful and unique locations in not only Australia, but the world. With a location on south western coastline of Australia the views are amazing. But there is much more than cliffs, breezes and views to Albany. Find out more when Roy chats with Albany Mayor, Kevin Wellington.
In this episode we speak with Port August Mayor, Brett Bembow and Brendan Bevan. From the beautiful Flinders Ranges to the coast, Port Augusta has something for everyone.
We discuss the attractions of the South Burnett region in QLD, from nuts to the Blackbutt Bakery, the ranges, rich history and so much more!!
In this episode we chat with Geraldton Mayor, Shane Van Styn who shares with us what an amazing region it is. We talk about the pink lake, the beaches, the outback experiences and of course, facilities for caravan travellers and more!
This is the first episode in our I Love Australia Series where we talk to Mayors and Representatives about why you should visit their region. Listen to Roy have a great chat with the Mayor of Gannawarra, Lorraine Learmonth and Roger Griffiths (Manager Economic Development). Find out where the region is, what the offer caravan travellers and some things to do in this stunning area they call the Kakadu of Victoria!
In this episode Roy has a great chat with Aussie Legend, John Rooth. Roothy is a real-life Aussie Legend. With extensive knowledge of motorbikes, 4WD's, caravans, bush mechanics, publishing and who knows what else Roothy is a real character of the Australian Outback. Check out Roothy's website for more info. https://roothy.com.au/ (https://roothy.com.au/) Don't let the relaxed facade fool you: Roothy knows his stuff and with a friendship with Roy spanning the last 20 years they have plenty to talk about.
In this episode Roy explains the role of a manufacturer/renovator in the weight of caravans. During the design phase, weights are a primary consideration and are often in conflict with the wants of a caravan owner. For instance more drawers or storage add weight which actually means you lose payload and you can carry less!! Other considerations are construction materials, inclusions such as batteries and water tank - don't forget to add the weight of water when the tanks are full. Roy explains this scenario and more in this episode. With an average payload of 600kg, caravan owners need to be aware that this is all of the weight that they can add. Toolboxes, water, food, drinks, additions and other items can soon put you over the limit if you are not careful. Being overweight can lead to trouble with the law, or even worse lead to your caravan swaying while towing.
It isn't just about weight. It is about where the weight it. Water tank location, how much water to carry, how you store you food and where: there are many considerations with weight. With a limited payload to consider every kilogram counts: even cutlery!! And don't forget to add in those stashed bottles of wine under your bed or seats!! Roy covers off everything you need to know including running through different scenarios and how to keep things in check.
When we asked everyone what they wanted to hear about in our Podcast Show the clear winner was caravan weights. It is a complicated issue and that is why we have 4 episodes dedicated to it! Look out for episode 4 where we have a special guest: an Aussie icon that I know you will love (if you don't already!). John 'Roothy' Rooth! This episode focusses on the different types of weights and what they really mean.