 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Industry News Caravan and camping tourism has experienced a boom this summer season with caravan and holiday parks reporting high occupancy, increased 'first time campers' and an over demand for sites and cabins, particul;arly on the coastal districts, according to the NSW Caravan 7 camping Association. They said over the summer there was a noticeable increase in people trying a caravan or camping holiday for the first time and many of them choosing to stay in larger tents and camper vans. Recreational vehicle Manufacturers Association of Australia advise sales and production of caravans and campers last year were only marginally down on 2007's record year of almost 20,000. Grey nomads stung by superannuation losses are downsizing rather than handing in the keys. The top end of the market was suffering whilst sales of cheaper caravans were up. Approx 75% of sales are to retirees and super has had a hell of a kicking and that is what is causing the problem, the source advised.
CARAVAN PARKS GO GREEN: Popular family holiday spot, Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park, has a thorough environment management plan in place which focuses on key areas such as landscape, water and waste water management, energy efficiency, biodiversity conservation and community involvement. The Northern Beaches Park was recently recognised for their commitment to environmental sustainability and socially responsible management by being awarded the coveted Gold Gumnut Award for Caravan Parks by CCIA NSW. The award acknowledges the park's commitment to nurturing the environment and its possitive contribution to the district. Manager Karen Dineen says that environmental management is all about being a positive force within the wider community. " Its not just about tap fittings and other energy saving appliances, though these are important" explians Karen. "The social aspect is also important- looking at how you fit into the complexity of the local community. We donate to local groups, offer work experience to year 12 students and help unite the local community- this all helps our local environment."
Ben Yates CEO Caravan, RV & Accommodation Industry of Australia (CRVA) believes that "there is a direct connection between these numbers and the changes to Superannuation rules outlined in the last Federal budget. Older Australians have worked hard for their Super and the new rules not only provide taxation benefits but for the first time put the cost of a caravan or a motor home within reach of more people" Mr Yates said. Feedback from Caravan Parks right around the country supports his view. Colin Tobin, Dealer Principal of Canterbury Caravans in Bayswater Victoria said "In the 36 years I've been in business, I've never seen it so busy. The feedback that I'm getting from customers is that the decisions they are making now are a direct result of changes to Super Regulations. We have already recorded an increase in sales in the first part of this month by 65/76%. The traffic flow of potential customers looking to buy after 1st July has also increased by the same amount" Mr Tonin said. In April the NSW Caravanning & Camping Show recorded its highest number of paying customers. Many visitors to the show told exibitor David Carrick principal Jayco Sydney that they had been advised by their Financial Councellors not to do anything until after 1st July. According to the results of the 2006 Census we are living longer, with higher incomes and it is clearly the self funded retirees who have responded so possitively to the recent changes to Super Regulations. Mark Glencross, dealer principal City caravan Centre Loganholme QLD said, "Our biggest problem is keeping up with demand for product. We are seeing an increase in a new segment of the market, customers who had not considered caravanning previously. With the latest changes to Superannuation, there has never been a better time to see Australia for people 60 and over.
|