Australian Caravan Club members from four branches enjoying their recent muster (photo: Frank Casey)

Sharing friendships and adventure in a fun and relaxed environment

WIND and rain failed to dampen the spirits of Australian Caravan Club members attending their second North Queensland combined branches muster at Airlie Beach.

Attracting over 50 members from the club's Tropical Tourers branch (Townsville), Sugar City Pioneers and Coral Coast Cruisers (Mackay branches) and Capricorn Tourers branch (Rockhampton), the event was held at the Island Gateway Holiday Park at Jubilee Pocket.

Organiser Linda Brierley said members from the four branches had enjoyed a joint muster at Sarina last August so much that it was unanimously decided to hold another one.

"While a bit of wind and rain didn't dampen our spirits, unfortunately the region’s famed boat trips just weren't an option and outdoor activities had to fit in between showers," she said.

"We chose the venue partly because of its beauty and ideal location for the diverse group from as far north as Cairns and as far south as Rockhampton. We also hoped our business would assist the area with post-cyclone recovery.

"While the Island Gateway Holiday Park was undergoing repair and renovation during our visit, the park's management couldn't do enough to assist us throughout the muster."

The park owners and manager put on a barbecue for the group, with proceeds going to local charity Sailability.

"ACC members also donated prize pools from barefoot bowls and trivia competition to Sailability," Ms Brierley said.

"Over the five days of the muster, we played barefoot bowls and had dinner at the bowls club, had sunset drinks at the sailing club, ran a trivia competition and lunch at the Jubilee Tavern.

"There was also a games afternoon, barbecue breakfast and a competition involving registration numbers that kept one branch busy all weekend.

"Despite all the activity at camp, we still managed to find time for tag-along drives to Gloucester Bay and Cedar Creek Falls.

"Everyone is different and there was something for everyone."

ACC chairman Craig Humphrey congratulated the branches on their successful event.

"It's great to see our club members experiencing what membership is all about – sharing friendships and adventure in a fun and relaxed environment," he said.

There are now plans for a repeat muster next year.

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