By DENNIS AMOR

A LEADING figure who promoted a foreign-built range of caravans in Australia before the major importer went bust is planning a whirlwind visit to the German factory.

Peter Treasure, who worked for the now defunct Oakhurst International Caravans, wants to thrash out pressing issues with Geist bosses, including warranty, spares and future imports of the popular brand.

He also want to hold talks with Geist UK who, he says, were the original wholesalers.

And he is inviting Geist owners to finance the October-November trip by donating to his Geist Lobby Fund. He hopes to raise at least $5000.

"Yes, I am trying to raise funds to travel to Germany and the UK.," he told Caravanning News. "I have personally put up $1000 and have about $1000 more donated so far."

Mr Treasure revealed that the Geist owner contributing the most money would be offered the chance of accompanying him to the factory in Sassenberg.

Queensland-based Oakhurst International Caravans, Australia's top importer of Geist RVs, went into receivership earlier this after running up debts of more than $9 million.

Bewildered Geist owners are concerned over the lack of spares for their caravans and fear their warranties are now worthless as agents refuse to do repair work.

Meanwhile, a Geist spokesman in Germany told Caravanning News that a new importer had still not been signed up because of legal issues after the collapse of Oakhurst International Caravans.

Mr Treasure said he was anxious to resolve pressing concerns, including establishing a spare parts link, warranty issues, future sales to Australia and some representation in Australia by the factory. "As an owner of a Geist myself I, too, would like to find out some more details," he said.

The person accompanying him would "oversee that I am genuine; state their case in regards to their concerns and give a balanced approach to LMC management".

People donating money to the lobby fund would be given a full written report on their return along with audio and video interviews with LMC (Geist's parent company).

He said all donations would be refunded if his target figure was not reached by September.

"As the former national development manager for Geist I do feel a need to help other Geist owners. My inputs as Geist Runner on forums around the world are a testament of that."

Mr Treasure stressed he has had no connection with Oakhurst International Caravans since his contract was terminated in February.

"Absolutely no money donated is associated with Oakhurst International Caravans or its directors," he emphasised. "My concern is to make sure that there is every opportunity for Geist owners in Australia to feel comfortable with their purchase.

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