The Jayco Exhibition Centre Hall offered a spacious display of many popular Jayco models (top), while exhibitors such as RV Towing Solutions did a brisk trade in accessories (above).

'Strong attendance' at Wodonga show

WODONGA'S recent fourth annual Border Caravan & Camping Expo set a whole new standard for the size and variety of displays, organisers said.

Exhibitors reported an enthusiastic response to the spacious new layout and the greatly increased variety of products on display, with strong sales across the board.

The Caravan Industry Association Victoria (CIA Vic) was more than happy with the result for its official industry show, with attendance close to last year's figures.

Chief executive Robert Lucas said the attendance was strong throughout the three-day event, despite being dampened slightly on one day by persistent drizzle.

"There's no question about it, this show has really come of age. And we are locked in for the next three years to fill the entire expanded site we used this year," he said.

"The big indoor displays mounted by Jayco and Avida, both with their own dedicated halls, made for many more caravans, trailers, motorhomes and campervans – even fifth-wheelers – for patrons to inspect.

"Several manufacturers took the opportunity to expand their sites and display all or most of their models so people could see exactly what the different models had to offer.

"Thanks to the extra display space, along with a general upgrade of the racecourse site, the whole show was easier to navigate. We had plenty of new products too."

A highlight was the enthusiastic response to CIA Vic's charity raffle of a unique 23ft family caravan worth over $78,000 for Kids Under Cover.

The charity takes an early-intervention approach to preventing youth homelessness. It is the only organisation in Australia offering the unique combination of housing, scholarships and mentors for homeless and at-risk young people

Mr Lucas said more than 1000 raffle tickets were sold to show patrons, in addition to those already being sold by CIA Vic members throughout Victoria.

"The raffle is off to a great start and we hope to raise up to $100,000 or even more," he said.

"Tickets will also be on sale Melbourne Leisurefest at Sandown Racecourse, where the winner will be drawn on October 5.

"The big news is that we now have online sales at www.gomakesomememories.com.au.

"Just click on the 'Shop' tab and buy a book of tickets – not only is it a great prize but will you be supporting a very good cause."