Advocacy for owners of recreational vehicles throughout Australia has become one of the driving forces of the Australian Caravan Club, it was announced this week at the Shepparton Showgrounds at the 10th anniversary national muster of the Club.
In its 10 years since formation in 2006, the Australian Caravan Club has evolved substantially. It has developed from being a new social oriented operation to one of substantial strength and weight in the RV Arena. While maintaining its social element, the Club’s focus has grown to include advocating for members and RV owners across Australia as a key component.
‘Opportunities to represent the Club and RV owners to Government is an important aspect of the Club’s activities,” said Tom Smith, outgoing National Chairman of the Club. “A lot of work is undertaken by volunteers from the development of policy by an eight person team. The team seeks to drive input and focus on better value for members and RV owners.”
“We do what we do because passion drives our members to continue to foster professional responses and input to issues across Australia affecting RV owners. There are no paid officials of the club undertaking this. Our members have a strong belief in what they do and seek to make a positive contribution,” said Mr Smith.
As an example the Club has been integrally involved in the Liverpool Plains Shire Council efforts to encourage RV activities in the Shire. As a result of this significant input, Tom and the Club’s involvement is acknowledged in the report overview.
‘Our advocacy and policy committee has also been working with the Fraser Coast Council about opening up the area to free camping for RVers.’
Incoming Chairman Craig Humphrey has been invited by the Queensland Government to attend the State’s premier Tourism Policy event Destination Queensland (DQ) in Mackay later this month.
“I was pleased to accept the invitation to DQ and importantly this will be my initial representation of the Club as Chair at this level. I view this as an important opportunity for the Club. I will be seeking to build on the great foundations that Tom has developed over the past 5 years,” said Mr Humphrey.
“The Club has a proud history of being involved in many policy issues. We consider we have demonstrably achieved much and will continue to really punch above the weight for a young and all voluntary organisation,” Mr Humphrey said.
For further information, contact Tom Smith on 0429 870 823 or Craig Humphrey on 0409 605 890