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A NEW caravan rolls off Australia's production lines every nine minutes
as the industry strives to keep up with increasing demand.
Today, there are about 430,000 caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers
registered in Australia, making it one of the world's most
caravan-friendly countries. Around 25 percent of these are registered in
Queensland alone.
The news comes as Caravanning Queensland prepares to throw open the doors
of the state's major Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show, which will
be staged at Brisbane's RNA Showgrounds from June 6 to 12.
Research shows that more and more Aussies are hitting the road and
discovering their 'backyard' rather than travelling overseas for their
family holidays.
Last year, Australians accounted for $5.4 billion of the $7 billion spent
by tourists on caravanning and camping, and made up 91 percent of all
camping nights.
The increasing number of younger generations turning to camping and caravanning is also boosting the surge in local touring holidays.
Caravanning Queensland chief executive officer Ron Chapman said touring
holidays were becoming the preferred holiday option for Australians.
He pointed out that the sector continued to perform well, even in
difficult economic times, as Australians realised that their own backyard
provided the most affordable and flexible holiday.
"The figures say it all," he explained. "Australians are choosing to take
their families on the road rather than travel overseas ... and why
wouldn't they when our own country has such a vast range of things to do
and see."
Mr Chapman said current caravan production highlighted the continued
demand for touring holidays.
"At the same time, new touring holiday parks and attractions are also
catering for this growth," he said.
Research showed that touring holidays could have a positive effect on
people's relationships, with the outdoors bringing people together to
spend quality time.
"Whether you're young or old, it's always a good time to escape together
on a touring holiday with family and friends," Mr Chapman added.
