KEA News AU

All I Want for Christmas is...

lynnbriggs — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:47:45 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

Can it really be December again already? I don’t know if it’s been the same for you, but this year has passed me in a blink.

As gift giving is traditional at this time of year, I thought I’d give you some ideas on what to get the RV traveller who has everything. Helpfully, it’ll also double as a list you can pass on to loved ones, if you happen to be that traveller.

Walk around the stalls at any caravan and camping show and you’ll see many ingenious devices that address problems big and small, or just make life on the road that little bit easier. This month, I’m dedicating my column to half a dozen gadgets and manufacturers that stand out in my mind.

I should note before you tuck in, that none of the following companies are aware that I’m drawing attention to their business or products, nor are they affiliated in any way with KEA Campers. I’m simply sharing my admiration for their work and achievements.

PREVENTING WILDLIFE COLLISIONS – I’m not sure if the good people at Shuroo were the first to come up with the concept, but they’ve certainly created a great product. In short, the Shuroo is a small vehicle-mounted device that air passes through while you’re driving, creating a high-pitched frequency that warns wildlife from straying into your path. They started selling these in 1986 and for my money, it’s still the best way to avoid animal collisions. www.shuroo.com.

TOWAGE – The HitchMate Cargo Carrier is an alternative to a trailer or roof rack, which fixes to the back of your vehicle by way of the towbar. It will add extra length to your motorhome, but it’s worth it for the extra storage for anything from cargo boxes through to motorbikes or scooters. It’s a clever, versatile and Australian made alternative to more cumbersome carrying options. Check out www.hitchmate.com.au for stockists and installers.

INNOVATIVE MOUNTING POINTS – As far as clever devices go, the Tallon Systems range really does it for me. Basically, they’ve designed a mounting system for a range of brackets and other devices, from champagne glass holders through to clothesline riggings, all attaching to a single flush-mounted port. Originally designed for marine applications, the system works equally well for RVs – which there are too many of to go through here. It’s a NZ company, but there are plenty of Australian stockists; visit www.tallonsystems.com to see what’s available and where to get it.

AUTO LEVELLING – I really like what the folks at Peninsula Motorhomes have created with their range of auto levelling and stabilising devices, including their trademarked Stabi-lite system. Each can be applied to different vehicle types, sizes and configurations, and I’m a big fan of the universal remote which allows you to stabilise your parked vehicle from an appraisable distance. www.peninsulamotorhomes.com.au has detail on the product range as well as an online order service.

COOKING – there are loads of on-the-road cooking devices on the market, but one of my favourite products is Tefal’s compact Ingenio Cocoon. It lives up to its namesake by encapsulating three different pans and lids in true Russian Doll fashion, which is great for stowage – and the Tefal products themselves are great for food preparation and storage. To find out more about the Cocoon and where to find it, visit www.tefal.com.au.

HEATING AND COOLING – while installed air and water heating systems are RV standards, the Webasto crew have a range of additional devices that can extend capacity and engine life. I personally like their alternate power cells to ensure you’re not reliant on external electricity sources whenever you stop, especially if you don’t have the benefit of roof-mounted solar panels. www.webasto.com.au.

I have no doubt this very short list will prompt ideas of your own, and may even get a bit of debate rolling. If you do have any examples of great products and services that make your life on the road easier, I’d love to hear about them; email me at normanroe@keacampers.com.

One final gift idea is the new KEA rental gift voucher – which will allow you to give the experience of life on the road as a Christmas present. Call us on 1800 252 555 or email me if you’d like to know more.

I hope you and yours have a wonderful Christmas and new year, and we’ll see you again in 2010.

Merry Christmas and safe travels,

Norman

Behind every rambling man...

lynnbriggs — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:34:43 GMT

Behind every rambling man is a woman who knows better!

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

Before I kick off, I just want to take a moment to mark the first anniversary of this column. It’s been twelve months since Wanderer began to publish my ramblings, although the fact you’re now reading this suggests you’ve either built up a tolerance, or you’re new.

In the October issue I announced I was going to dedicate this month’s instalment to my favourite motorhome gadgets. At least, that was the plan until, when researching the latest gizmos, I stumbled across something so ridiculous that I had to take a different tack.

(For anyone avidly awaiting my round-up on gadgets – I’m sorry to disappoint and promise I’ll come back to it.)

The subject of my astonishment was German caravan and motorcaravan manufacturer Sunlight, creator of the Das Manner Mobil concept vehicle – roughly translated as the Men’s Mobile. (Note: I found it at www.gizmag.com, but if you’re going to be in Germany in the near future, the German-language www.sunlight-caravaning.de website has a list of appearance dates.)

This monster is a male stereotype on wheels. Features include built-in spirits dispensers beneath a ceiling-mounted cinema projector, audio speakers that double as a dartboard, a poker lounge in place of a dining nook and a roof-mounted bird watching platform – a description which I’d wager does not refer to ornithology. The little details take the cake though, from the cowhide bar stools and bucket seats, through to the helpful selection of men’s magazines in the wall rack.

I felt a wave of déjà vu at this point. Last year, we launched – as an April Fool’s Day prank – the KEA Class-A Bachelor, a motorhome designed primarily for “single men aged 18 to 39.” The Bachelor was a V10-powered beast fitted out with every pimp-my-ride cliché we could think of, from plush red-carpeted walls with zebra trim and mirrored ceilings to a roof-mounted Jacuzzi. We even worked in an Austen Powers-inspired clapper for the lights.

It was fun at the time, but we didn’t think anyone would build it. Now that someone has, I would love to know if anyone has bought one.

I’m sure anyone who sells recreational vehicles for a living would agree that when a couple buys a motorhome, most of the purchasing decisions are made by the lady. Sure, the male plays his part, but in my experience it’s usually the missus who calls the shots.

Why then, has someone not designed a motorhome that specifically appeals to women? Or have I missed something, and such a thing already exists? It seems to me the Men’s Mobile designers either ignored that very important commandment of RV purchasing – Thou Shalt Bow To The Wishes Of Thy Boon Female Companion – or they’ve built it purely to spit in the face of that fact of life. Any rebellious husbands out there, looking to (expensively) prove a point?

So, I’d like to issue a challenge to Wanderer readers, to come up with a concept for a Ladies Leisure Seeker. The most inspiring and creative suggestions, as judged by our panel of experts (read: the women who keep the good ship KEA afloat), will be showcased in the March 2010 issue of this column, and I’ll come up with a prize for the best one. You’ll need to get your entries through to me by the end of November, by emailing norman@keacampers.com.

If you’ve any earlier suggestions or bribes, you’ll catch me at the South Coast Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo in Batemans Bay on 6 November. We won’t be exhibiting the KEA A-Class Bachelor, I’m sorry to say.

Safe travels,

Norman

You take the low road....

lynnbriggs — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 21:34:45 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

Earlier in the year I made one of my semi-regular trips to see my family in Ireland, as well as a couple of weeks with my brother Colm. He lives with his family right in the thick of the Scottish highlands, in a tiny little village called Glenfinnan.

This is a spectacular part of the world with a fascinating history. Glenfinnan’s actually where Bonnie Prince Charlie started the popular uprising against the English, and it’s full of centuries-old buildings and relics of that time. Colm built a house there and like the good Irishman he is, teaches Gaelic.

Both Colm and I have lived away from Ireland for a long time. Before I went to see him, I caught up with some friends in Dublin who I’d not seen for years. My mate Peter, who I used to go motorcycle touring with back in the day, was clearly inspired by my description of the motorhoming lifestyle; a few weeks later, he sends me an email with pictures of the RV he intended to buy.

Peter went ahead, and has subsequently been renovating his new rig. This involved asking all sorts of questions about solar panelling, reverse cameras and other bits and bobs – but he’s had a really hard time finding people in Ireland who can provide the right gear and expertise. He’s ended up ordering some components from Australia, which speaks volumes about how far the local industry has come.

Motorhoming is really starting to take off in Ireland, but it’s a good 20 years behind where Australia is now. The US industry is streets ahead of us again; no-one does motorhoming quite like our cousins across the Pacific.

A more relevant comparison though, is between Ireland and mainland UK (and here comes the segue back to Colm). I was there in the northern hemisphere summer and the narrow, winding Highland roads were packed with motorhome convoys up from England.

Colm said Scotland’s always been popular among English RV enthusiasts heading north for summer, but he’d never seen anything like the volume of travellers we experienced during my stay. It’s a similar story to here in Australia; international travel and visa applications out of the UK are down, the Sterling is in the dumps (unlike our hardy currency, of course), and drive travel is going gangbusters.

Here’s something to break the popular trends though...I was amazed to bump into (not literally, mind) a couple who had shipped over an Australian-built motorhome for a couple of years of touring the UK and Europe. Rather than buy a locally-built rig, they opted to go to the extra expense and remain convinced theirs is among the best vehicles on northern-hemisphere roads.

Back home in Australia, new innovations for motorhome travellers pop up every day. Next month, I’ll dedicate some space to outlining my favourites; for now though, it’s great to see the products and expertise of these companies are being favourably compared with those from other established markets, by enthusiasts from around the world.

Speaking of enthusiasts, we’ll be holding court at Melbourne Leisurefest from 1-4 October if you’re planning to drop in, and at the Canberra Times Home Leisure, Caravan, 4WD and Camping Show on 23-25 October (and try saying that five times fast). Or as always, you can email me at normanroe@keacampers.com.

Safe travels,

Norman.

Doin' it for the Kids

lynnbriggs — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 20:17:42 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I’d like to take a moment to formally acknowledge the arrival of Spring, and with it my favourite time of the year for touring. I’ll now allow a few moments for you all to make the usual cracks about Irishmen who should be used to the cold blah blah blah – to which I simply say: there’s a reason I emigrated.(1)

If the growing number of enquiries I’ve received for child-friendly vehicles and features are anything to go by, September also marks the countdown to the next round of school holidays, early next month.

We’ve had a lot more people looking for rigs they can take their kids or grandchildren away in, with ages ranging from teenagers all the way back to newborns and toddlers. Given the level of interest, I thought I’d dedicate part of this month’s column to some of the more common considerations.

Beds – do you have enough of them? Configuration’s a concern as well; it’s always handy to have at least one double bed that can be set up as a couple of singles. If you’re travelling with a toddler, you may need to get a little more creative with their sleeping arrangements; some of our customers have discovered the luggage net over the over-cab bed can double as a handy cot barrier, for example.(2)

Seating – do you need extra seatbelts? It may sound like I’m teaching you to suck eggs, but keep in mind a four berth will have belts for four, a six berth for six etc. Anchor points for child seats are also important considerations, if you’re travelling with children under 5 years old.

Storage – is there enough room in the vehicle for you to stow children’s toys, books and other entertainments? How you carry outdoor equipment such as bicycles, boogie and surf boards and the like are also worth keeping in mind...you can get external racks for that sort of thing, but make sure the gear isn’t going to add too much extra length, height or (especially) width. Using roof spaces for stowage can be tricky, given the various vents and solar panels atop most quality motorhomes.

Living and entertainment – how will you keep the kids occupied? Having a television and DVD player will make it a lot easier to answer this question, especially if you’re able to hook games consoles to the TV. Having a couple of separate living spaces is also handy at night, or when the weather has you otherwise cooped up inside.

Safety – will the vehicle be safe for smaller children to run around in, and where (if any) are the danger points? Ultimately, you want to know if it’s safe to have the kids playing in the vehicle unsupervised, while you’re sitting outside having a cup of tea.

Food preparation – does the vehicle have all the gear required to keep a hungry teenager fed and watered on any given day? You want to make sure you have the essential cooking equipment and a fridge big enough – as well as plenty of storage space – to hold the volumes of food they’ll churn their way through.(3)

These points don’t cover all the questions, but it’ll get you started. I personally think travelling with children adds a new dimension to motorhome touring and if you can do it, you should. There’s no other family holiday quite like it.

If you’re a regular family sojourner and are planning to attend the CMCA Rally in Rockhampton on the 28th, keep an eye out for me; I’d love to hear your stories. We’ll also be at the Penrith Camping and Caravan Show from the 10th to 13th if you’re around – or you can drop me a note to normanroe@keacampers.com.

Safe travels,

Norman.

(1) That said, I know a few of you answered my call a few months back to head South for the winter. After spending some time in the colder climes myself over the past few months, I can heartily recommend that you never listen to me again.

(2) Unless of course your toddler’s a junior Houdini – in which case, a less elevated sleeping situation may be more their speed.

(3) I would bet a very large sum that any parent of teenage boys would be nodding sagely at this point. Or even potentially cursing in wonder at how much they can pack away.

Taking the slow lane

yvonne — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 23:03:19 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

One thing I wouldn’t say about a camping and motorhome show is that it’s a relaxing day out. Many vehicles in a relatively small space, surrounded by crowds of people all intent on indulging their enthusiasm for the lure of the road, make for a fast-paced environment. It was at a particularly busy show that I was talking to a chap who had recently retired. He was keen to discuss one vehicle at considerable length, oblivious to the frenetic pace of the action around him. I was torn, wanting to indulge the man’s curiosity but also responsible for making sure the other dozen visitors were looked after as well. When I told him I was a bit short on time at the present and could he excuse me a moment, his cheerful response was “well, I’ve got all the time in the world!”

It was an enlightening moment for me and, when I later had opportunity to mull a while, I realised how time-rich many members of our community are – and how incongruous that may seem to the rest of us still dreaming of a more leisurely life.

I know many, many retirees who are as busy now as they were before they waved goodbye to the full-time workforce. It’s the ability to choose how their time is spent that sets them apart. For me, the realisation was cause for pause.

Owning a motorhome requires more than a whim. It’s a major investment that for many, is second only to home ownership – and should be treated with the gravity it deserves. Anyone attending a show or CMCA rally for the first time would feel the impact of the sheer range of options available to a purchaser, and it can get pretty daunting even for old hands.

What this situation really drove home for me was, ours is a form of travel designed for taking delight in the journey, not running headlong to an end destination. And the best way to really enjoy the journey is to take the slow lane. It’s only right that an enthusiast should apply the same principles when looking for the best vehicle to take you on that journey.

So if you happen to be passing the KEA stand at a show and are keen to have a word, but I’m talking to someone else, stick around – or even join the conversation.

Also, if you’re in Cairns on 22 August or Darwin on 29 August, our KEA depots will be holding open days. I promise our staff will have all the time in the world to tell you everything you’d like to know.

Safe travels,

Norman.

All you single ladies ....

yvonne — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:07:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I recently received a book of motorhome poems from a KEA owner and perennial traveller, Maxine McLaughlin who, since her first solo trip from Adelaide to Canada at the age of 20, has consistently travelled Australia and around the world ever since. I thought I’d share with you a few stanzas of verse which I reckon neatly capture the appeal of the road.

A white line runs in front of me and knows just where I’m going.
It takes me to adventures where there’s rivers overflowing;
past dried up fields bereft of yields, and towns where no one lives,
and mountain tops and winding tracks and rugged coastal cliffs.
I don’t care what the others think – I wish them all the best,
but I have freedom and for that I feel that I am blessed.
I talk to those who talk to me, I love the camaraderie,
a friendly smile is home to me, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.
Since her husband of 33 years passed, Maxine has retired and now splits her time between home and her seven grandchildren, and driving solo around Australia. And if that surprises you, consider that Maxine’s solitary ramblings by no means make her unique.

A respectable proportion of travellers buying our campervans and motorhomes of late have been single women. Their individual circumstances aside, we’re witnessing the emergence of solo ladies grasping the bull by the horns (or in this case, the bull-bar by the cross-struts) and investing in an RV with the intention of hitting the road alone.

I recognise that in finding this emerging army of single women enjoying recreational vehicles (may they forevermore be known as SWERVs) in any way remarkable, I’m in danger of being criticised for outdated attitudes. I’ve been in the motorhome game for a long time now, and it used to be that the majority of single people buying a rig were lads; interestingly, the number of solo chaps on the lam in motorhomes (or SCOTLIMs) has dropped in direct proportion to increases in the SWERV population.

I’ll leave you to draw your own conclusions about SWERVs and SCOTLIMs. In my opinion, it’s great to see motorhome travel as something more than a masculine pursuit, or a journey anyone – man or woman – only does as part of a couple, family or group of friends.

I find it inspiring that anyone would be so drawn to the freedom and adventure of life on the road that they’ll become a SWERV or a SCOTLIM. And as I’ve said in this column many times, life on the road definitely isn’t a lonely one – as many of the poems in Maxine’s collection will attest.

However you choose to roll, if you’re in the neighbourhood, pop in and see us at the Sydney Retirement Expo at Rosehill Racecourse from 24-26 July. And for anyone who’s interested: you can buy a copy of Maxine’s self-published tome by emailing the author at intransitmax@yahoo.com.au. She’d love to hear from you.

Safe travels,

Norman.

'Set your Sites on Camp Bliss'

lynnbriggs — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 20:30:14 GMT

It's Saturday evening and as children busy themselves with bikes and balls, their parents gather in groups around barbecues and picnic settings beside tents and caravans. Keep very still and over the sounds of campsite life, you can hear the sea washing gently onto the beach. Above, a perfect night sky is emerging and with the coming of darkness cooking smells intensify along with the sounds of communal conversation around the camping ground.

Read the full article by clicking here: ~/News/04 26 09 Sun Herald Set your sites on camp bliss.pdf

Rolling against the tide

yvonne — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:24:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I don’t know about you, but it gives me a warm glow to be driving against the traffic. When ahead of me is a clear stretch of highway while across the dividers is a relative parking lot of lanes choked with the crawling multitudes.

That sounds bad, I know. I’m not a cruel person, nor do I delight in the misfortune of others. I just love any reminder that I’m onto a good thing. And if that good thing is an open highway, I’m a happy man.

I’m pretty sure I won’t be inching out onto too big a limb to suggest many of you out there feel the same. In previous columns I’ve discussed at length my delight at the way motorhome enthusiasts congregate and welcome other travellers, but it’s one thing to be accepting of your fellow rambler and quite another to enjoy being part of a 50km motorcade.

That time is on us again however, as winter sets in and the northern migration ramps up. And if everyone’s hopes for a pickup in domestic tourism come to fruition, there’ll be quite a bit of traffic on Highway 1.

And so, my challenge to you all this winter: go South! Eschew the traffic snarls, the crowded campgrounds and snail-like tourist trails, and embrace our chillier climes.

(Of course, if you’re a skier, then this is all a moot point. You get to head into the cold, and you get the traffic. Not exactly the best of both worlds, but I salute your fortitude.)

Anyone who’s heard me open my mouth would know I’m not from around these parts; I began life as an Irishman. As a young-feller-me-lad (because that’s what we were called, back in the land of the shamrock), we were inured to the cold. While I’m still yet to lose even a semblance of my Irish brogue after years in Australia though, the warmth is something I got used to very quickly.

I say that to show that this is by no means an attempt to convert you all to an expat’s nationalistic cause. I’m a lover of sun and surf as much as anyone who was born in this fine country – and perhaps more so, because I’m chillingly aware of the alternative.

Let’s see how many people we can get spreading the love across more of the country this winter. The people of regional Victoria in particular will love it – which is by no means a bad thing.

On that note, hopefully I’ll see you at the bottom end of Australia at some stage over the next few months. It won’t be during 3-9 June though, because I’ll be at the Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show in (cough) Brisbane. And back there on 20 June for our Brisbane depot Open Day. Hey, I don’t set the dates!

Safe travels,

Norman.

Schmick Campers

lynnbriggs — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 21:44:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I’m yet to meet a campervan or motorhome owner who doesn’t take pride in its appearance and maintenance. They know what makes their rig tick, and will spend hours keeping their home-on-wheels looking and running at its best.

The KEA crew receives a steady flow of questions on how best to keep an RV schmick. And there are no silly questions when it comes to care and maintenance; the reliability and safety of your vehicle relies on regular TLC.

This month, I thought I’d dedicate my column to a few tips on how to care for your campervan or motorhome, all with a view to extending its life and enjoyment, and identifying any problems before they occur.

Exterior
Firstly, the fibreglass body: exposure to extreme sunlight, pollutants and excessive moisture can dull and stain your home’s casing. Keep it glossy with regular washing with a mild autowash solution, and wax twice a year. The metal body has a baked enamel finish, which will stain over time if soil and debris is allowed to build up.

Also make sure you regularly rinse the undercarriage, wheel arches and engine bay to remove dirt, oil, tar, salt and other debris – avoiding the risk of erosion in these areas.

Roof
Inspect the roof carefully every three months, especially the seams where fibreglass sections join, and around vents, skylights, air conditioners etc. There are special sealants for repairing any cracks or shrinkage. The same applies for any windows and other external seals.

If you have rooftop solar panels on your motorhome, check with the manufacturer for the best way to regularly keep these clean. The dirtier the panels, the less effective they’ll be.

Tyres and wheels
This is rule number one of RV travel: make sure your tyres are checked before any trip, keep them inflated to recommended pressures, and rotate them every 10,000km. Apart from assisting with on-road performance and fuel economy, your tyres are the vehicle’s first and most important safety feature.

Batteries
After disconnecting the battery terminals, visually check the electrolyte level by removing vent covers. Only use distilled water to replenish any cells, as acid or tap water (which contains impure minerals) will permanently damage the battery.

Also check for loose terminals, corrosion or damage to the vent covers or case. Remember, batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas, so check with care.

Interiors
The construction materials used in your vehicle’s interior will differ depending on the manufacturer. At KEA, we use lightweight marine-grade plywoods and nylon carpets, and heavy-duty laminate finishes – all of which are easy to clean and maintain with minimal effort. Domestic cleaning rules apply depending on the surface and nature of the stain.

Water and waste management
Empty the toilet cassette regularly, wash thoroughly and rinse with fresh water. You want to make sure your grey or waste water tank is regularly emptied as well; prolonged use can result in an odour buildup that can be difficult to shift. We recommend regular application Biomagic or a similar product into the tank via the sink.

I’ve kept it pretty brief here, but we’ve more advice at www.keacampers.com.au. The main thing to remember however is that common sense usually applies, and dedication to regular maintenance will mean you’re less likely to have problems with your vehicle down the track.

If you’ve any questions, email me at normanroe@keacampers.com, or drop in and see me at the Victorian Caravan and Camping Show on 11 May or the Hunter Valley Caravan and Camping Show on the 22nd. If you’re at the latter (or even the former, come to think of it), I’m a merlot fan.

Safe travels,

Norman.

Five Star Motorhoming a Dream

lynnbriggs — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 20:38:00 GMT

It is possible to travel by road with all the comforts of home, writes Brad Elborough in the Perth Sunday Times.

Read the full article by clicking here: ~/News/03 29 09 Sunday Times Five-star motoring a dream (Perth Sunday Times).pdf

Home Sweet Motorhome

lynnbriggs — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 20:43:00 GMT

I want to go home," says our three-yearold quite firmly. This is disheartening, given we've only just left home. We haven't even reached Milperra, where we're going to swap our sedan for a rented motorhome and embark on a nine-lay trek from Sydney to Melbourne and back. My wife Jo and I exchange nervous glances. A 2000 kilometre roadtrip with a three year-old? Are we crackers? As we arrive at Milperra, it's nmy turn to want to go home. In the entrance of a garage so big it could belong to John Laws, the white beast looms. Twice the size of anything I've driven before, it's the mother of all motorhomes. A sticker on the window warns me it's 6.8 metres long and 3.1 metres high.

As Jo and I are taken on a half-hour tour of the four-berth Bertha's features and fixtures. I'm thinking there are two roads we could take. The first is the good road. Each day, Jo, Edie and f will park beside a secluded beach, explore the attractions, cook up a feast and then fall asleep in luxuriously large beds. The next morning, in a nomadic version of Lifestyles Of The Rich And Famous, we'll hit the highway for yet more enriching, bonding adventures. The second road involves a re-enactment of the I Love Lucy scene in which Lucille Ball tries in vain to bake a cake in the back of a speeding Winmebago. "Oh, Ricky," Lucy exclaims as flour flies everywhere. I, naturally, will play Lucy.

Read the full story by clicking here: ~/News/12 13 08 SMH Home sweet motorhome.pdf

All Hail the Early Riser

lynnbriggs — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 20:41:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I enjoy my sleep. I’m officially a fan. And as much as I’d sometimes like to be, I’m not a crack-of-dawn Charlie – which is normally fine, despite the stick I regularly receive from dedicated up-and-at-‘ems. One gets by, though. I like to think that when Lennon and McCartney wrote Golden Slumbers, I was their muse.

As we continue to careen headlong into show and rally season, I was recently reminded of a situation that highlighted how I’m perhaps, as a sleeper-inner (if there is such a word), in the minority among the nomadic fraternity.

Which probably explains why several enthusiasts were as surprised as they were at a rally a couple of years back when, after breakfasting, they went for a stroll among the many caravans, motorhomes and campervans all coming to life at the start of the day, and stumbled across mine.

No activity. Not a light on or a blind raised, and all doors firmly shut. (To be fair, it couldn’t have been later than eight o’clock. Eight o’clock! It’s inhuman.)

Still, you can’t blame them for admiring the thing of beauty that is a KEA motorhome. I am of course biased, and you’ll forgive me for it, but for the sake of the anecdote, take it as given that it is a thing of beauty, and they were taken by it. So much so that they decided they’d like a closer look, and endeavoured to see if I was at home.

The early bird catches the worm...and Norman in his pyjamas.

I have quite nice pyjamas. They’re comfortable, and I like sleeping in them. Having said that, I will be the first to concede they are not among my selection of to-be-seen-in-public outfits. On the other hand, I was at said rally in my official capacity as ambassador for The Good Ship KEA and, at the sound of the liberally rousing knocking at my front door, dutifully jumped to.

To say my new friends were amused is one way of putting it. I later received congratulations on my welcoming attitude, mostly from people who weren’t present at that ungodly hour. If everyone who slipped me a word had actually been among that scouting party, there would have been a long line out the door...which tells you something about how fast a story can travel among us lot.

All told, my visitors were much impressed by what they saw (the vehicle, not my sleep-dishevelled self) and told their friends that, too. And as it turns out, they were lovely and charming people despite their inexplicable ability to rise with the sun, and we’re still in contact to this day.

...Which brings me to the moral of this tale. Had I decided to put the pillow over my head and ignore the knock, it’s possible I’d have never met them. And so while I may not be a full convert, I can see the up-side. Early risers – I salute you.

(This of course does not mean that, at the next rally, I am drop-dead keen to have visitors at the crack of dawn. It is after all, possible to have too much of a good thing.)

Speaking of outings and such, we’ll be holding an open day at our Perth depot on Saturday 4 April, and will be at the NSW Caravan Camping 4WD and Holiday Supershow at Sydney’s Rose Hill Racecourse a fortnight later, on the 18th. Drop in and say hi.

Norman

On with the Show(s)!

lynnbriggs — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 19:30:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I hope you all had a great summer doing what you love, and visiting your favourite places or finding somewhere new. It may be just me, but in my travels over the last few months, there seemed to be more campers on the road than usual; the more the merrier, I say.

Come autumn, and the annual calendar of camping and caravan shows is about to kick off once again. From now until November, my colleagues and I will traverse the country to fly the KEA banner (and show off the range, of course) at the various shows and expos around the place. March itself is a hectic old month, with three shows in as many States ahead of the CMCA rally – this year in Whyalla, South Australia – from the 30th.

Over the years, I’ve come to see the volume of RV traffic over the summer as a yardstick for the popularity of the year’s shows. If the season just gone is any indication, then the 2009 calendar is going to be a busy one – and I’m particularly keen to be part of the turnout in Whyalla at the end of the month.

I personally love the shows and musters, not just because they provide opportunity to meet like-minded enthusiasts, but also for the collection of manufacturers and entrepreneurs these events attract. Every show I attend, I find something new that captures my imagination – whether it’s a simple solution to a common problem plaguing RV travellers, or a new gadget to make life on the road more comfortable, or even a completely off-the-wall device or idea that’s good for head-shaking value.

The boffins at our own KEA Manufacturing Company, the mob that designs and builds our fleet of campervans and motorhomes, enjoy this side of things even more than I do. These folks are consistent innovators themselves, so I know that anything that catches their attention is worth a second look.

Of course, I like to think that the little and large improvements the KMC crew keep coming up with will be of interest to others at the shows. Often it’s the little things that make the most impact, but some of their more substantial ideas over the years – the super-large picture windows, and the purpose-built bedding and wooden flooring systems, to name a couple – have been much-imitated since. And flattery is a wonderful thing.

We’ll be starting and ending the month of March in Adelaide, starting with the South Australia Camping and Camping Show and finishing up in Whyalla. In between, we’ll be at the Albury Wadonga show from 6-8 March; the Gold Coast Caravan and Camping show from 13-15th, and the Perth Caravan and Camping Show the following weekend.

Hope to see you there,

Norman

Spreading the RV Word

lynnbriggs — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 19:28:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

Every now and then at KEA, we help out a journalist who wants to experience travelling in a motorhome. As you’ll agree, there’s nothing quite like seeing the world by RV, and it’s addictive.

When it comes to a fine publication like The Wanderer, it’s a case of preaching to the converted. Beyond those hallowed halls however, in most cases we’re dealing with people who have rarely (or never) stepped aboard even a relatively small rig – and as a result, much of what they have to say is couched in the joys of personal discovery.

A recent convert to the RV travel cause wrote a story for one of the country’s larger newspapers, mapping out a trip he and his young family took from Sydney to Melbourne and back, visiting National Parks along the way. Once they got over the size of the motorhome they were about to purloin for the duration of their trip, he waxed lyrical about rediscovering the holiday spots of his childhood; immersing themselves in stunning natural environments without having to forego the comforts of home; and the many benefits of taking time to explore their surroundings.

His ultimate conclusion was that they’d do it again – he just wished he’d had more time, to enjoy the journey as much as the destination, and luxuriate in each stopping point.

As CMCA members, this is a realisation we all reached a long time ago, but it’s great to see such influential and vocal people recognising this really is the best way to travel. Their next step is to discover that there is a community of sojourners in this country who will welcome them with open arms.

Over the last couple of years, we’ve experienced a growing number of young families in particular, renting KEA motorhomes – to the point where for the first time, Australian travellers now rent more vehicles than overseas visitors. This bodes very well for the future of the CMCA community, as occasional renters turn into motorhome owners.

So if in your travels you see a starry-eyed motorhomer who may not be completely clued up on the etiquettes and nuances of the road, stop and say gday; they could very well be the next person to publicly sing your praises.

And if you’re planning to head to any shows in February, drop in and see us at the Adelaide Caravan and Camping Show on 25 February, or the Illawarra Caravan and Camping Show south of Sydney on the 27th. We’ll have our latest vehicles on show as well as the range of optional extras, which seems to grow by the week.

Until then – yours in happy ramblings,

Norman.

New Year's Motorhome Resolutions

lynnbriggs — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 19:19:00 GMT

Norman's regular column - as seen in the CMCA's monthly Wanderer magazine

I’m a terrible one for new year’s resolutions that at any other time of year, would be filed under the more realistic heading of fanciful wishful thinking. Buy me a beer and I’ll tell you about some of the more outrageous attempts at turning over a new leaf born of party-fuelled best intentions.

Apart from providing some red-faced moments when you have to explain to your mates that yes, you probably shouldn’t have issued that loud proclamation the night before, the new year is as good a time as any to make sure your RV is all set for the year ahead. No matter how good your gear is, I’m a stickler for regularly ensuring a vehicle is in the best possible shape for the next adventure.

So, in the spirit of the season, I’m giving you five practical new year’s resolutions for your pride and joy to help you all make it through the next twelve months in fine form.

1. Batteries

Every RV has engine and house batteries that keep you mobile and provide power while on the road. Whether yours is a relatively simple system or a more whizz-bang number with solar rechargers and the like, they need to be regularly maintained.

All batteries should be changed every two to three years to ensure efficiency and protect the electrics in your vehicle. Low voltage situations may damage some components in older vehicles without low voltage trips; newer rigs have fail safes in place for this sort of thing, but it’s still good to keep an eye.

2. Tyres

Tyres do more than just keep you on the road. The age, quality and tread of your tyres can affect fuel economy as well as traction, a fact that over time can save – or cost – you money.

Your tyres are checked as part of a basic service, but it’s worth keeping regular tabs on the life of the tyre. Either rotate or replace your tyres and get a wheel alignment, making sure the spare is good as well. Importantly, make sure there’s enough rubber for the duration of the trip, by estimating the number of kms you’re planning to travel and check with the supplier to ensure your current tyres will safely go the distance.

As a general rule of thumb, new tyres will get you approximately 50,000km. I usually recommend our customers stick to the manufacturer specifications as much as possible when choosing new tyres, or if in doubt, call the manufacturer for advice.

3. Service and safety

We rent as well as sell our vehicles. After every rental, we do an approximate 40-point check to make sure it’s ready for the next customer. While this is probably over-compensating in an owner-driver situation, we recommend our KEA owners schedule similar checks for their vehicles every six months or 15,000kms.

4. Solar panels

If you’re running your auxillary battery off solar, you’ll need to make sure the panels themselves are clean to ensure they operate at maximum efficiency. Just as a dirty pane of glass reduces the amount of light penetrating a window, so too does a build-up of grime on the photovoltaic panels – something that can become a real thorn in the side of travellers who are into freedom camping.

Different solar panel manufacturers suggest different ways to keep the panels clean, so it’s best to check with them on the best way to keep the grime off.

5. Air conditioning

Especially at this time of year, an under-performing air conditioning unit can be a real drag on a trip. Make sure you get your air conditioner checked as part of the service to ensure its working efficiently and the temperatures are correct.

This is a pretty simple procedure that shouldn’t add to the cost of the service. And if you need to get the system re-gassed, new year is a very good time to do it – before you head out into the summer heat.

This is a simple checklist that for me, provides peace of mind above anything else that the basic components and major mechanics of my RV will be fine when I’m planning my trips for the next twelve months. It’s also good to know that even if I can’t keep my new year’s resolutions, my rig will more than make up for it!

Happy new year and safe travels,

Norman