iMotorhome
1st Birthday
24: May 4 2013
magazine
Issue
because getting there is half the fun...
Edition
Win!
$50 Caltex Fuel Card!
Our favourite Martian
Malcolm!
Trakkaway 700
On my mind BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS!
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n the rush to complete our Route 66 adventure and get the previous issue out while still travelling in America I completely forgot to mention that this issue marks our first anniversary: Yes, iMotorhome is one year old. Happy birthday, us! Self-congratulations aside, like all new businesses it’s taken longer to build, cost more and produced less income than we’d planned/hoped, but we’ve made it and the future is looking good. Thanks to you, our readers, for all your encouragement, positive feedback and support, and thanks to our loyal advertisers: we couldn’t have done it without you all!
We kicked off in May 2012 with no readers or website traffic and have spent very little on promotion. But by the end of April 2013 we’ve had more than 45,000 website visitors (46/54% new/returning), more than 100,000 page views and delivered just a whisker under 45,000 magazines. Considering motorhomes make up just 10% of the Australian RV market I hope you’ll agree we’ve done pretty well. The good news is all those figures are increasing steadily and it will be fascinating to see where we are this time next year. It has been quite a challenge to source vehicles for testing
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and produce a whole magazine every two weeks or so, but as a team we’re more-or-less in the groove now and our well oiled machine is running like, um, a well oiled machine. Special thanks go to Malcolm Street for his unerring support and underpaid help, plus to Agnes Nielsen, our designer. Agnes works a full time job, has a husband and five-year-old son and still manages to produce this magazine in her ‘spare’ time (and at mate’s rates). Impressive, huh? Our first year has gone by in a blur and the next year promises to do the same, while being both evolutionary and revolutionary. Continued...
• Campervans • Motorhomes • Caravans • Hobby Haulers
• Camper Trailers • Off-Road Caravans • Pop-top Caravans • Hard-top Caravans • Campervans • Motorhomes
5 Melrose Dr, Wodonga 3690 • Ph: 02 6024 4222 • awrvworld.com.au
Onmy mymind... mind On
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...Continued
There will be a strong emphasis on developing our new website, which will launch later this month, into an industry-leading motorhome resource. All our magazine articles will eventually be available to be read online as well as downloaded individually, while our fully featured classifieds for private sellers and dealers will become a focal point.
There are some exciting travel and reporting opportunities opening up in the year ahead and one I’m busting to tell you about, but have to wait for the final obstacles to be overcome. Next issue I’m intending to release pricing details of our new classifieds and while I had planned to bring you a Route 66 update in this issue, time and space simply haven’t permitted.
Finally, the iMotorhome tagline is ‘because getting there is half the fun’ and I have to say it certainly has been. Thank you again for your support and happy birthday to us: it’s been quite a ride!
d r a h c Ri
The iMotorhome Team
Richard Robertson
Malcolm Street
Agnes Nielsen-Connolly
Publisher & Managing Editor
Consulting Editor
Design & Production Manager
A long-time freelance RV, motoring and travel writer, Richard is a dedicated, longterm motorhome enthusiast.
Unquestionably Australia and New Zealand’s best known RV journalist, Malcolm is a fixture at CMCA rallies and RV shows and is now in his second decade as a specialist RV writer.
Agnes is an experienced and talented graphic designer with extensive experience across a wide range of disciplines, including travel and advertising.
richard@imotorhome.com.au
He has held senior editorial positions with some of the best know recreational vehicle magazines in Australia. Richard also has a passion for lifestyleenhancing technology, which is why he is the driving force behind the new iMotorhome eMagazine.
malcolm@imotorhome.com.au
If it’s available on either side of the Tasman, Malcolm has probably driven it, slept in it, reported on it, knows how it’s made and can tell you just how good it really is.
agnes@imotorhome.com.au
Designing and producing iMotorhome issues since June 2012, Agnes does much of the behind-the scenes work to ensure every issue looks great and is easy to read.
©2013 iMotorhome. All rights reserved. Published by iMotorhome. ABN 34 142 547 719. PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW. 2576. Contact us on 0414 604 368 or Email: info@imotorhome.com.au
Love your freedom. Love your Horizon. ... especially if it’s the new limited edition “Back in Black Pack” Horizon Banksia or Melaleuca.
These special edition motorhomes feature ultra-modern black and white interiors as well as distinctive alloy wheels and body striping. Established in 1995, Horizon motorhomes are built in, not bolted on. Choose from 5 models, all simple to drive and park and all with practical space saving layouts and quality interiors. Experience the Horizon difference. Test drive one today and ask about the limited edition “Back in Black Pack” models.
p. 02 6681 1555 • 299 River St, Ballina NSW 2478
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INSIDE EDISNI 3 ON MY MIND Happy birthday to us!
7 ON YOUR MIND Have your say for a chance to win a $50 Caltex fuel card!
10 NEWS
Happenings from the wider RV world
14 TESTED
Hayman Holiday – Malcolm Street takes a busman’s holiday
28 TRAKKA PROFILE
17 SYDNEY SHOW
Cookin’ with Diesel – a Chef’s thoughts on Webasto’s diesel-fired cooktop
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21 48 REARVIEW
Sydney turned on an Indian summer to welcome visitors this year.
Could a not-so-big Winnebago A-class be your next motorhome?
23 52 MOBILE TECH
Snap me happy! Instagram is more than just another photo app…
56 NEXT ISSUE What’s coming up, plus our show calendar
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On your mind
G’day. Australian authorities pondering the free camping debate would do well to consider this report, which is available online via the Escapees RV Club in America: “A Study on the Economic Effects in Nova Scotia of the RV Overnight Parking Ban, and Aspects of Campground Minimum Standards. By Andrew Cornwall” “This authoritative study was undertaken by Andrew Cornwall, a former government economist, as a policy review of the economic consequences of a ban on RVers staying overnight in parking lots and on aspects of minimum campground
Hello there, just bought a used motorhome and I’m looking for info on who the manufacturer might be. All the ID it has is “C 7450-6” on the side and rear,
7 It’s only fitting that since Ed has his say in On My Mind, you should be able to have yours too. If you have anything to say – or ask – just drop a line to letters@imotorhome. com.au and we’ll share it with
our readers. We’ll also reward the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter each issue with a $50 Caltex fuel card to help you on your way.
standards. Using the province of Nova Scotia, Canada, as a case study, the report examines the negative impact on RV tourism of a jurisdiction banning RVers staying overnight in parking lots, etc. The study also considers the effects of undue government standards on private campgrounds in Nova Scotia that can deter new private campground investment and stifle innovation. The report contains the results of on-line surveys and other information regarding RVers' practices and opinions on staying overnight in parking lots, etc., and includes wide-ranging information on RVers and the RV tourism market in North America generally.”
Seventy pages long, your readers might none the less find it fascinating reading and helpful ammunition when countering the claims and obstacles placed in their way by parties with vested interests. You can download a copy here: http://www. escapees.com/Parking/ Docs/rv-report.pdf
on a Iveco Daily body. Can you help with info?
G’day Peter, I’m thinking it might be an old Britz Rentals’ Iveco if it’s a van conversion. Anyone else have any ideas?.
Peter, via website.
Bob, via email. Thanks for the heads-up Bob; what a thoroughly researched and valuable document it is, despite it being a few years past current. I hope you enjoy you $50 Caltex gift card as reward for bringing it to our attention.
On your mind
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I would like to congratulate you on a fine magazine. I only became aware of it's existence when my wife and I called in to Trakka motorhomes in Mt. Kuringai to view the range of motorhomes. Whilst waiting for Dave Berry to show us their range, I noticed the iMotorhome leaflets on the counter so I took one and here I am. We are seriously considering purchasing the Trakka 860 motorhome and whilst perusing back issues of
iMotorhome, low and behold there was the full test report on the Trakka 860. It was good to read an unbiased report on the vehicle and we agree with you on the con's you mentioned. Dave Berry was extremely knowledgeable and helpful with the features of the motorhome and showing us through the Trakka factory. We also went to the Caravan and Camping show and checked it out again, next thing after the show is to have a drive and make sure it
fits in the garage. Thanks again for the superb content in the iMotorhome magazine.
When I attempted to use the download facility with your magazine, a warning flashed up informing me that this could damage my computer, so I opted out. Could someone enlighten me as to
why this might be, please?
to your computer's security settings, but rest assured there are no dangers lurking on our website! If you'd like to resubscribe you'll be fine. and please let me know if you have any more issues.
Hi Malcolm. As I had ordered a new Jayco Optimum back in October last year I read with interest your very comprehensive and well illustrated report on the vehicle. It was certainly the most detailed that I have seen. Just one thing you noted which I find to be incorrect, now that I finally have been
supplied with my new toy, is that you say that when the slide out for the bedroom is in you cannot walk past the end of the bed to access the toilet. Whilst I only have skinny legs, I am sure that the gap is sufficient for all to get by to the toilet.
Roger, via website. Thanks Roger, you're the second person I know of who has received that warning. I can only think it is related
John, via email.
Paul, via website. Thanks Paul, I'm glad you've 'discovered' iMotorhome and you like what we're doing. The Trakkaway 860 is a great machine and I'm sure you'll be very happy with it if fits your garage (you must have a long garage!). Please let us know how you go.
Malcolm writes, “Thanks for your feedback – hope you enjoy your new motorhome. I think my comment might have related to when the bed extension bolster is used, can’t quite remember. It’s not only Jayco who have that particular problem either.”
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News
10 [ MANY GOOD RETURNS \ FOR MOTHERS’ DAY the Asia Pacific. These people need a small loan to start to expand a small business, grow their income and lift themselves out of poverty. Good return combines microfinance with education and skills building to create lasting longterm benefits.
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ith Mothers’ Day upon us, here’s a practical way you can make a difference to mothers in developing countries who need a hand up, not a hand out: Good Return.org Good Return is a micro-finance lending site that connects Australians to the working poor in
In a nutshell, what you do is visit the website and select the person you’d like to help. It might be a young woman in Nepal looking to borrow $250 to start a grocery store or an older mother in the Philippines looking to borrow at $650 to buy some piglets to breed from. Either way, you choose the person you lend to and how much
you want to lend of the total they are seeking. Money is lent interest free and is scheduled to be repaid over 12 months. So far, Good Return has a 100% repayment record and you can help finance as many people/projects as you like. iMotorhome is an active supporter of Good Return and find it rewarding and humbling; being able to directly affect the lives of people who want a hand, not a handout. To find out more visit www.goodreturn.org and see what a difference you can make for somebody else’s mother. Happy Mothers’ Day!
The Wirraway 260 SL
With it’s Full Length Slideout Room & Apartment Styled Layout !
From WIRRAWAY, “Australia’s Most Innovative Motorhomes” Wirraway is a dedicated family owned business striving for Motorhome excellence. Our Motorhomes are our passion! Every Wirraway Motorhome is handbuilt and designed by experienced motorhomers who know the importance of making life easier on the road. New to our Range is the brilliant ‘live like a movie star’ Wirraway 260 SL, the latest in our 260 series; our EuroStyle 260 with it’s European styled interior and “The Motorhome of the Year”, the Wirraway 260. Wirraway Motorhomes feature opulence, style and all the legendary design, electrical and construction innovations that are unique to all Wirraways.
Each Wirraway Model is unique! - All are a Must See!
View Our New Website to view All Models, Download Brochures &Virtual RealityTours For details contact: Rob Tonkin - Wirraway Motorhomes, 6 Hynes Court, Mildura Vic 3500
Phone / Fax: (03) 50 230 230 - New Email: info@wirraway.com.au & New Website: www.wirraway.com.au On The Road Wirraway 260SL Slideout Motorhome - 2012 © Rex Willmer
News
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4 ANOTHER TASSIE FREE CAMPING SITE GONE 4
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n a press release dated April 30, Latrobe Council in Tasmania has announced it will upgrade the Station Square Camping Station as it is now required by the Tasmanian State Government to charge for overnight stays. The press release reads: Latrobe Council (Tasmania) has committed significant funds to undertake an upgrade and improve the grassed area behind Station Square which is used as an overnight camping area by motorhomes and caravans. As a result, this area will be roped off for at least a four month period to enable the works to commence on 1 May, 2013. Latrobe Council's Mayor, Mr Michael Gaffney, said, "As Latrobe Council has been required by the State Government and Economic Regulator to charge a fee for the
facility, it was felt that the upgrade works were best to be provided now to improve the amenity of the area for future all-weather use.” “The scope of works is quite substantial, including grading, top soiling, re-sowing grass, signage, planting of trees and creating a better access in and out of the overnight camping area.” “In order to minimise the impact of such works, the timing and duration of the works is over the autumn and winter period which is traditionally the lowest occupancy period. This will also enable a sufficient period for the rectification of the undulating areas that holds water and becomes boggy in rain periods and for the grass to become established.” Mayor Gaffney continued by saying, "We acknowledge that for some visitors, charging a fee
per night will not be satisfactory, however Local Government is a creature of the State Government and we have no choice but to abide by the directive. Along with a National Competition Policy, there is also a cost recovery requirement as well. As a consequence of improvements to the site, there will be no camping in the area behind Station Square, Latrobe over autumn and winter, with a planned reopening on the site in September 2013. Upon the reopening of this facility, a nightly fee of $10 per compliant motorhome or caravan, a requirement by the State Government Regulator, will be charged. Story courtesy of www.freechoicecamps.com.au
News
12 † TALVOR GOES DIRECT ¢
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alvor will open its first Australian Premier Dealership in Brisbane’s Northgate, with a large sale on 8-11 May. Talvor CEO Luke Trouchet said the shift to a direct retail model in Queensland would give the company an opportunity to sell its growing range of caravans and motorhomes direct to the public
in Queensland from a dedicated site, year round.
the best caravan or motorhome for their needs,” he concluded.
“With a new range of USAbuilt caravans now joining our Australian fleet of motorhomes, it is time to put Talvor out in front here in Queensland,” Luke said.
There are opening special available and you’ll find the Talvor Premier Dealership at:
“The Talvor Premier Dealership will boast its full range of caravans and motorhomes, a dedicated sales team staff and be a one-stop shop for after sales service for Queensland customers.” “The ‘Great Aussie Road Trip’ shows no signs of slowing down in popularity. It remains a big dream for Australian’s of all ages and Talvor gets them on their way in
TALVOR, 698 Nudgee Road, Northgate, QLD 4013
Click for Google Maps
Telephone: 1800 825 867 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30am – 5:00pm, Sat: 8:00am – 1:00pm Visit www.talvor.com or call 1800 TALVOR for more information.
News
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n VW CAPS SERVICE COSTS n European manufacturer to offer such a program in Australia.
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n a move likely to please Volkswagen-based motorhome purchasers, a Capped Price Service Program has been introduced across the Brand’s commercial vehicle model range. This makes Volkswagen the first
All new VW commercial vehicles first registered in Australia on or after 1 January 2013 will be covered for a total of 90,000 km (180,000 km for Crafter models) or six years, whichever comes first. A scheduled service in the Volkswagen Capped Price Service Program includes the regular replacement of oil filters, engine oil and sump plug washer at each service interval, as well as the
standard replacement of the air filter (at 45,000 and 90,000 km) and spark plugs (every 60,000km). The Company says, “Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle customers will now benefit from the security of a comprehensive after sales package of Capped Price Servicing, a three year/unlimited kilometre Volkswagen Warranty and three year Volkswagen Roadside Assist.”
s VALIANT OFFERING s being repainted in mirror-finish two-pack black. At the same time, its interior was completely refreshed in contrasting red and grey vinyl, with an emphasis on factory original appearance.
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stunning jet black with red interior 1962 S-Series Chrysler Valiant sedan that has had more than $50,000 lavished on its total restoration is a standout vehicle of Shannons Sydney autumn classic Auction next Monday (May 6). Starting with a straight, rust-free car with its odometer showing just 106,630 miles (believed genuine), the Valiant was torn-down and soda blasted to bare metal, before
All rubbers were replaced and the Valiant also received a disc brake conversion and upgraded suspension components, while modern wheel studs allowed the fitment of the 18 x 7-inch fivespoke mag wheels shod with 215/45 radial tyres. A new radiator was fitted with driveline components all refurbished and detailed, while inside Vintage Air fitted airconditioning and a modern sound system with iPod connectivity was added.
With receipts showing the cost of the Valiant’s transformation to be in excess of $50,000, Shannons is confident that what might well be Australia’s best S-Type Valiant will sell easily in its projected $24,000$28,000 price range. The Valiant is one of 25 car, 13 motorcycle and scooter and 20 garagenalia lots in Monday’s auction, which is being held at Shannons showroom at 65 Reserve Road, St.Leonards, from 7pm. For more auction information, visit www.shannons.com.au or contact: Ian (02) 8019 4180, or Stuart (02) 8019 4179.
Hayman Holiday Tested: Talvor Hayman
Malcolm Street takes a busman’s holiday in Talvor’s Hayman... Review and images by Malcolm Street
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Tested: Talvor Hayman
Malcolm discovered he wasn’t alone at the usually quiet Kenilworth Homestead camping grounds, thanks to the Anzac Day weekend break.
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s I write this I’m sitting at the dinette of a Talvor Hayman motorhome: one that’s parked amongst about 900 other motorhomes, I’d just like to point out, as I’m having a few days at the Anniversary Rally of the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) in Maryborough, Qld. The Hayman is slightly different to the rest of the Talvor motorhome lineup because it’s currently the only model in their motorhome range that comes with a slide-out. On my travels from Brisbane (where I collected the motorhome) to Maryborough I
thought I’d have an overnight stop at Kenilworth Homestead. It’s about 20 minutes off the Bruce Highway and not far from the pleasant town of Kenilworth (surprisingly!). When I have been there in the past it’s always been a pleasant and peaceful camping area. I’d forgotten that Anzac Day created a super long weekend for many people and any number of campers decided to take advantage of that. I normally like nice quiet places for motorhome photography but that wasn’t to be. My relaxing caravan neighbours looked at me a bit oddly when I first started to fiddle around and set things up with the
sun at the right angle et al, but proved to be good and friendly. The Vehicle nderpinning the Hayman is a Fiat Ducato Multijet 160 cab that is bolted to an AlKo chassis: the latter being used because it increases the motorhome gross vehicle mass (GVM) from 4250 kg to 4495 kg. My Hayman is a B-class unit (i.e. has no over-cab bed) but it’s also available as a C-class (with an over-cab bed). Except for the front and rear mouldings, the roof and side walls are all of a composite fibreglass structure.
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Tested: Talvor Hayman
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The slide-out dinette and swivelling cab seats provide good dining and entertaining space.
Bin space is good, even allowing for the house battery and charger in this one. For the entry door, Talvor has opted for a Dometic European style with top half window and a separate concertina style insect screen that works quite well but isn’t any sort of security fitting. Seitz windows, complete with integrated blinds and screens, are fitted all round, while covering the
outdoor area is an Omnistor awning. One of the features of this motorhome is the surprising number of external storage bins. Along the offside there is just one, but it’s excellent for water and drainage hoses, as well as the power cord
and wheel chocks. Along the nearside there are four storage bins and all are of a good size. Two are dedicated to the gas cylinders and 12 V house battery and charger, but the other two provide generous storage. There is also a small entertainment unit with a Fusion radio (connected to the inside unit), 12 V socket and TV antenna connection. On the Road
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ne point of note is that the Ducato Multjet 160 has been superseded by the Multijet 180 and whilst there have been a few Fiat features upgraded in the cab there has only
Tested: Talvor Hayman been a moderate increase in performance. Having driven both almost side-by-side at some point, the difference isn’t particularly noticeable. The motorhome certainly gets along well enough, with the Fiat six-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) performing well in most conditions, except for the usual hesitation in the lower ranges. There are the usual motorhome noises and rattles when driving along, most like the cooktop being easily solved by the use of a well placed tea towel, but the rattle of the slide-out mechanism directly behind the driver’s head was a bit annoying. Living Inside ike any good motorhome, setting up the Hayman takes minimal time. Once parked on a level spot it’s a matter of pushing a switch to open up the front offside slide-out. After that and once the door, windows and hatches are open, it’s almost time to sit down and relax.
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This particular layout (a rear bathroom floorplan available) has a rear bedroom with an east-west bed; a split bathroom ahead of that; a front nearside kitchen and a dinette/lounge area that includes a cafe-style dinette in the slide-out. Both cab seats swivel around and being a Fiat Ducato that happens with a minimum of effort. Above
Dometic toilet cassette is easily removed for emptying.
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Tested: Talvor Hayman
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The dinette seats are rather close, which could make seating four people difficult.
Over-cab storage is handy, but watch your head entering/leaving the cab.
the cab seats the Ducato roof cut-out has not been retained, thus giving a much needed shelf storage area, but increasing the risk of bumping your head when moving to and from the cab. There are some advantages to using the cut out and building in small cupboards and/or shelves above the cab. The LED lighting fitted throughout the Hayman is mostly very well done. In both the front and rear areas there are two separate systems: downlights for bright lighting and concealed strip lights for lower-level mood lighting. Whilst the bed and dinette have reading lights, the front cab seats don’t. Most of the electrical control switches are
Most switches handily available above entry door.
Tested: Talvor Hayman
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Looking aft, the kitchen has good bench space while the bedroom and bathroom can be closed off for privacy. located in a panel above the doorway and most are easy to get at, except for the hot water switch, which is set quite low, beneath the aluminium lip of the locker, making it awkward for shorter persons. Sitting Around ocated in the slideout, the dinette is a conventional cafe style, upholstered in leather and capable of accommodating two people on either side. Being in the slide-out it sits about 100 mm (4 in) above floor level. Although the table has a certain amount of backwards and forwards movement the dinette seats are quite close together and taller persons might find that a problem. Additional seating is as noted above: supplied by the matching leather upholstered cab seats.
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Slide-out dinette is neat, but the mechanism rattled when driving this vehicle.
Tested: Talvor Hayman
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East-West bed has reasonable walk-around room.
Bedroom corner cupboards provide limited storage.
A flat screen TV (not connected to the sound system) is mounted on the forward end of the control panel above the entry door. It’s easy to see from the rear dinette seat but a person in the front seat is going to be sitting sideways. A slightly better TV mounting point might be above the rear seat, whereby it can be seen from the cab seats in addition to the front dinette seat. Although both under-seat areas are available for general storage I did wonder whether a couple of drawers might have been more practical. Also, a few lockers above the dinette would be an asset, but I did wonder about weight issues in the slide-out.
The B-class Hayman’s rakish styling is evident here.
Tested: Talvor Hayman Time to Eat ike many a motorhome kitchen, the Hayman’s is a split layout. The nearside bench is a standard layout that features a threeburner cooktop with an oven/ grill below, fitted at the rear, plus a stainless steel sink (sans drainer) by the door. The sink is quite deep and whilst good for a bit of light laundry, is tempting to fill with too much water for normal washing up. Not having a drainer does provide a reasonable amount of bench top area, but in the absence of anything else I used a tea towel as a drainer. Under the bench top are five drawers of various sizes and one cupboard. Much of the cupboard space is taken by
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Fridge/freezer and microwave sit in the slide-out, too.
either the sink unit or the hot water heater. In addition to all the aforementioned storage, the bench-end nearest the door is fitted with six wine bottle holders. On the opposite side, at the end of the slide-out, is a 175-litre Dometic fridge with a Sharp microwave above that’s set at a reasonably userfriendly height. Above that is fitted a welcome item; a Fusion radio with iPod socket – some of my favourite music is playing as a write this. After Hours easuring 1.85 m x 1.5 m (6 ft 1 in x 5 ft), the rear bed is set against the nearside wall and
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21 has a timber base and an inner spring mattress. Given the space constraints, bed walkaround space isn’t too bad. There are two lockers above the bed but only the rear wallside has a narrow wardrobe, with a bed-level cut out and bedside cabinet. Both sides have a narrow shelf that is sort of useful, but a bit knuckle scraping at bed making time. Apart from the generous under-bed storage the only other bedroom storage comes from small diagonal cupboards in both corners, at the foot of the bed. Like the dinette seats, I did think that the inclusion of a couple of easily accessible drawers might be easier than lifting the bed. One of the options on the Hayman
The cooker/grill/oven combo is a welcome inclusion. Note wine bottle rack.
Tested: Talvor Hayman
Split bathroom provides valuable space.
is a second flat screen TV, mounted high on the corner diagonal cupboard, which is easily seen from the bed yet not bumped when walking around the bed.
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Separate shower cubicle is generous.
Keeping Clean ith the split bathroom arrangement, the toilet cubicle looks a bit like a large cupboard with a full height mirror, but is in fact a good sized room for the Dometic cassette toilet, a wash basin and a good selection
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of storage cupboards. A slightly unusual item is the Seitz window that has been mounted sideways so that it fits in well with the cupboards! Across the way, the reasonably spacious shower cubicle has a tri-panel sliding door and a variable height flexible hose
Tested: Talvor Hayman
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Ample exterior storage helps offset limited interior storage space.
You have to lift the bed to access this valuable storage area. shower. Both the shower and toilet cubicles are mounted about 150 mm (6 in) off the floor. What We Think here’s no doubt that the inclusion of a slide-out in the Hayman layout
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Excellent LED lighting is provided throughout.
adds greatly to the interior space in the front area of the motorhome. Whilst most of the living areas in the Hayman are reasonably well proportioned, a slight oddity is the minimal amount of interior storage space that can be used easily, especially in the rear area.
That contrasts somewhat with the external bin space, of which there is plenty. For many couples that will mean travelling reasonably lightly, at least with personal effects. On the road the Ducatopowered Hayman travels well and provides stress free
Tested: Talvor Hayman
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Lightweight screen door protects from insects only.
performance in terms of both power and handling. Bottom line with this motorhome; if you
desired plenty of interior living area then the Hayman is a good prospect. It’s also good,
I have discovered, for parking at a CMCA rally and just sitting around in for a few days!
Tested: Talvor Hayman
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The Hayman handles dirt roads nicely and is compact enough to let you go exploring.
Tested: Talvor Hayman
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Specifications Manufacturer
Talvor
Model
Hayman
Base Vehicle
Fiat Ducato with Al-Ko Chassis
Engine
3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel
Power
115.5 kW@ 3200 rpm
Torque
400 Nm @ 1600-2300 rpm
Gearbox
6 speed AMT
Brakes
ABS Disc
Tare Weight
3290 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass
4495 kg
Towing
1500 kg
Licence
Car
Approved Seating
4
External Length
7.88 m (25 ft 10 in)
External Width
2.43 m (7 ft 11 in)
External Height
2.96 m (9 ft 9 in)
Internal Height
2.1 m (6 ft 11 in)
Rear Bed Size
1.85 m x 1.5 m (6 ft 1 in x 5 ft)
Cooktop
Thetford Caprice 3 burner, grill and oven
Fridge
Dometic RM8751 175-litre
Microwave
Sharp Carousel
Lighting
12V LED
Batteries
1 x 120 AH
Gas
1 x 4 kg, 1 x 2 kg
Heater
Optional
Solar Panels
Optional
Air Conditioner
Truma Aventa Comfort
Hot Water Heater
Truma 14-litre
Toilet
Dometic cassette
Shower
Separate cubicle
Fresh Water Tank
150-litre
Grey Water Tank
150-litre
Price (on-road Queensland)
$159,410
Pros • • • • •
Spacious slide-out area Generous external bins Split bathroom Excellent interior lighting Above-door electrical controls
Cons • • • •
Lack of interior storage No cab-seat reading lights Slide-out mechanism rattle Dinette slightly cramped
Contact Talvor Motorhomes 698 Nudgee Road, Northgate, QLD 4013 Ph: 1800 825 867 E: sales@talvor.com W: www.talvor.com
Click for Google Maps
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Trakka Profile
Cookin’ with diesel!
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Trakka Profile
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Mark and Louise Holland have spent the past 10 years supplying Sydney’s vast Northern beaches area with serious fine food and cooking classes at Food Stuff Mona Vale.
T
rakka thought Mark was the perfect man to ‘road test’ the Webasto Diesel Cooker in the Trakkaway 700. In only a few days on the road he created some mouth-watering dishes like Spanish Eggs for breakfast; Lamb Mint Burgers for lunch; and an amazing looking Sweet Bangalow Pork for dinner, just to name three. When the guys got back they asked Mark what he thought...“It’s bloody fantastic!” Tell me how you found the performance of the diesel cooker.
I found it very clean and efficient. I like the fact you could use it as a grill. Really clever. You can put a non stick, silicon BBQ mat over the top of the cooktop and cook chops, burgers and toast on there. For braising I just simmered all the ingredients in a pot or tray on the element. I also think it’s a matter of time before people are used to it because it’s relatively new. Chefs are of a mind set that they just love gas. But it’s a bit like Induction. When that first came in no-one wanted to know about it. But now people
understand it they all rave about it. I think diesel cooktops will be the same. I used it with an open mind and thought it was great. In fact I felt it was better than an electric stove. With the diesel stove when you set it at the heat, it kept the heat. Where as with electric, if you set it at a particular heat, it comes in and goes out. You can see with the cooktop the red glow coming and going on the element. I didn’t find that happening with the diesel stove in the motorhome at all. Very impressive.
Trakka Profile
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Mark says you need to choose the right dishes to cook to get the best from the diesel cooktop.
I also found the lack of smell inside the van a great thing when you turn on the diesel. Sometimes with gas you get that smell in a controlled environment. The fact you didn’t have to take gas bottles, or keep them topped up or have to worry about whether its turned on was great. And also it’s very safe. Remember I’d never used a diesel cooktop like this before so for a 5 day trip it was a great introduction. If you told me we were heading off around Australia and this is all we had to cook on, I’d think great, lets go. It wouldn’t worry me at all. It’s like anything, you learn how
Do you have any advice for people using a diesel So tell me about these BBQ cooktop? mats? Yeah I just think to choose You get them from the camping the right dishes to cook on shops. They are just a nonit. I mean in a normal kitchen stick silicon mat. We use them you don’t make toast in a in the cooking classes at Food frying pan. You use the grill. Stuff. The beauty of them is So you have to think about that if you are cooking prawns, what you’re going to cook. It’s we know they leave an odour, unique because its flat. It’s very smell or residue. So you have adaptable. The most amazing to go to the trouble of cleaning thing about it is, you can the surface thoroughly before actually fry, poach, boil, BBQ, cooking something else like grill, you can do everything steak, or bacon, or whatever. on it, which you can’t do on gas unless you have different With the silicon mats you facilities to go on there. I found simply take it off and put on the fact that you could cook a clean one or one you use directly onto it was brilliant. specifically for meat. it works and get on with it.
Trakka Profile
The cooktop heats progressively across its width, with the hottest area to the left. This means you can ‘adjust’ the I used the Trakkaway 700 for a week last year and found the rate of cooking by moving your Webasto diesel cooking system saucepan left or right, as well as by adjusting the cooktop’s good, with some provisos. As thermostat (which takes some Mark notes, all new ways of time to react). doing things seem odd at first and if you’re used to ‘cooking The only real downside I found with gas’ this system is very was that the cooktop acts as different. a radiator, so in hot weather it The startup lag means if you’re heats up the vehicle’s interior to a degree. Of course in cold just boiling the kettle for a cup weather this aspect becomes of coffee it takes about 15 a free bonus feature! Also, if minutes, so best to keep a you’re cooking with the window thermos of hot water during the day from breakfast if you’re open and the wind blows the wrong way you can get a whiff away from mains power and of diesel. can’t just plug-in a jug.
Ed’s Thoughts...
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Considering this system provides your cooking, hot water and vehicle heating (apart from the cooktop’s added radiant effect), it’s a terrific system. It also uses minimal fuel from the vehicle’s tank (with a system to avoid running you dry) and completely does away with the need for gas bottles, refills and the on-going annual gas inspection costs at rego time.
Feature: Sydney Show
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INDIAN SUMMER SPECTACULAR! Sydney turns on great Autumn weather for it's annual RV extravaganza…
mages) i ( t e e r t S By M alcoalmrd Robertson and Ric h The Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW (CCIA) reported strong exhibitor sales, large visitor numbers and plenty of happy campers at this year’s Sydney Supershow. According to a press release, “Theo Whitmont, President of the CCIA, was delighted with the success of the Supershow and the positive impact it will have on the industry and the domestic holiday market.” “Almost 80,000 people made their way to Rosehill Racecourse over the 9 days to research, book and buy for their next caravanning or camping adventure. With over 300 exhibitors displaying everything from two man tents to luxury motorhomes, it’s no wonder the Supershow continues to attract the masses,” said Mr Whitmont. Lyndel Gray, CEO of the CCIA, said “Apart from the exceptionally wet first day, crowd numbers were consistent with the success of past years. More importantly, you could tell they had done their research and were ready to purchase. Whilst tents and camper trailers were very popular we also saw great interest in the larger ticket items such as caravans and motorhomes.” Some exhibitors iMotorhome spoke with were a little less positive, saying overall visitor numbers seemed down on last year, but most still reported positive results (read: orders). And just in case you want to book it in, next year’s Supershow runs from April 26 to May 4. Don’t say you we didn’t warn you...
Feature: Sydney Show
Avan
A’van’s C-class Ovation with slide-out is a good looking unit.
Bedroom slide-out and rear bathroom ad a feeling of spaciousness.
34
Feature: Sydney Show
Avida
Avida ‘goes for gold’ with its popular Birdsville C-class.
Birdsville’s rear east-west bedroom. Note corner vanity unit.
35
Feature: Sydney Show
Frontline
Frontline’s VW Transporter conversion looks great in red.
Plain but functional, the VW's interior is well thought out.
36
Feature: Sydney Show
Horizon
Fiat or Mercedes-based, Horizon’s van conversion range is extensive.
Fiat Ducato’s wide body makes an east-west bed practical in a van.
37
Feature: Sydney Show
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Jayco
Jayco introduced this well equipped and competitively priced fifth wheeler.
It features a slide-out dinette and sofa, plus two freestanding armchairs.
Feature: Sydney Show
39
Mondo
Designer Luca (left) and agent Stefano debuted their beautiful Mondo slide-on.
! o m i s s i l Bel
Italian styled and built, the Mondo ‘rocks’ and takes innovation to new heights.
Feature: Sydney Show
40
Paradise
Paradise’s Colin MacLean brought his 600 hp Torana along for fun!
Massive slide-outs are a Paradise trademark and add oodles of room inside.
Feature: Sydney Show
41
Suncamper
Suncamper’s diminutive Sherwood C-class on a new HiLux 4WD.
Sherwood’s interior is bright and airy, with great viewing from the rear lounge/dinette.
Feature: Sydney Show
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Sunliner
The new Deck took centre stage on Sunliner’s large stand.
The slide-out deck is a real hit with women, who value its off-ground seating area.
Feature: Sydney Show
Talvor
Talvor’s Euro Tourer van conversion can be VW or Mercedes based.
Primarily a two-berth design, a four-berth option is available.
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Feature: Sydney Show
Trailblazers
For a rugged off-road camper Trailblazers’ big truck is soft inside.
Enough lights to cook wildlife at 100 m. Looks good, though...
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Feature: Sydney Show
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Trakka
This 4X4 Jabiru attracted a lot of interest - and more than a few show orders.
Like Father like Daughter: Dave and Alex Berry smiling at yet another show...
Feature: Sydney Show
Wirraway
Rob Tonkin’s Wirraway range has established a deserved top-end niche.
Wirraway’s upmarket interior is cleverly designed and beautifully built.
46
47 magazine
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Rearview: 2002 Winnebago Explorer
48
A-CLASS ACT! A big Winnebago Explorer that shouldn’t break the bank...
D
espite their appeal, factory-built A-class motorhomes are still a bit rare and something of a novelty on Australian roads. Initial purchase price is often an obstacle, but the reality of driving something the size of a tour bus is also daunting to many. But not all A-class motorhomes are monsters. The Winnebago (now Avida) Explorer range was offered in varying lengths and had much to offer – like this 2002 model now for sale at Albury
Wodonga RV World. At 8.5 m (28 ft) it’s a good length; providing ample living room for two yet it’s not too big to require special camping sites or to be unmanageable in towns and cities. Advantage Travellers
T
ouring in an A-class motorhome is something special. The main thing is you sit considerably higher than in ‘lesser’ vehicles and that huge windscreen provides exceptional viewing. That
carries over to when you’re stopped, be it for a cup of coffee or an overnight stop: Those two huge, comfortable Captain’s chairs swivel and you can put your feet up on the dash and enjoy the view, or swing them around and relax in real ‘armchair’ comfort. It also provides more privacy/ security when stopped as it’s much more difficult for people to peer inside. To help keep the price down when new, Winnebago built Explorers on what was
Rearview: 2002 Winnebago Explorer
49
Even without slide-outs there’s still good room throughout.
Commanding driving position has excellent visibility. basically a front-engined truck chassis riding on simple steel springs. That’s in contrast to top-line A-class motorhomes, which have a rear ‘pusher’ engine and ride on full air suspension. Fortunately, this particular Explorer has a 6.5-litre V8 Chevrolet turbo-diesel engine
fitted to its Spartan-brand chassis (petrol engines were available), driving through a 6-speed Allison automatic gearbox. No outright ball of fire, the big Chevy diesel is quite reasonable on fuel, but being right under the floor between the front seats means it’s noisy under acceleration. With less
than 75,000 km on the clock this big lazy engine should have years of life left in it, but remember that with a gross weight of just over eight tonnes you’ll need a Medium Rigid (MR) driver’s licence.
Rearview: 2002 Winnebago Explorer
50
Fitout for Purpose
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Dinette position might not suit everyone.
All three Captains’ chairs are seatbelt equipped.
he living area of the Explorer includes three swivelling front seats plus a sideways-facing three-seater lounge, with dinette. There’s a good sized kitchen amidships, with all the bench and cooking space (including a full oven and grill) on the kerb side, plus a large 186-litre, two-door fridge/ freezer on the driver’s side. At the rear is a queen-sized island bed and bathroom with separate shower, while ducted aircon keeps the whole thing cool and you can even run it when free camping, thanks to a remote start Onan 5000 generator. Hydraulic stabliser legs are another valuable inclusion, letting you ‘level up’ onsite without the hassle of wheel ramps. It also comes with a heavy duty towbar and twin reversing cameras. At $154,950 (plus ORC) this motorhome should still provide years of comfortable, capable touring for a fraction of a comparable replacement vehicle, plus that most valuable of motorhoming commodities – space. For more details or to arrange a test drive, call Matt Sears at Albury Wodonga RV World on (02) 6024-4222. You can also email him at matt@awrvworld.com.au or visit www.awrvworld.com.au.
Bench space is limited, but kitchen is well equipped.
Rearview: 2002 Winnebago Explorer
51
Specifications Nice bum!
Queen bed.
Manufacturer
Winnebago (Now Avida)
Model
Explorer
Base Vehicle
Spartan chassis
Engine
6.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel
Power
160 kW @ 3200 rpm
Torque
597 Nm @ 1800 rpm
Gearbox
6-speed auto
Brakes
Disc/drum
Tare Weight
6220 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass
8181 kg
Towing Capacity
2800 kg
Licence
Medium Rigid
Passengers
3
External Length
8.5 m (27 ft )
External Width
3.7 m (12 ft 2 in)
External Height
2.5 m (8 ft 2 in)
Cooktop
4-burner gas/grill/oven
Fridge
186 L LPG/12/240 V
Microwave
Yes
Batteries
4 x 100 AH
Gas
2 x 9 kg
Air Conditioner
Yes
Hot Water Heater
Suburban gas/electric
Toilet
Thetford cassette
Shower
Separate
Fresh Water Tank
180-litres
Price Australia
$154,950 + on roads
Pros
Big fridge.
• Space! • Low mileage • Very well equipped • Diesel power • Compact dimensions
Cons
• MR Licence required
Contact
Click for Google Maps
Albury Wodonga RV World
Separate shower.
5 Melrose Drive, Wodonga, VIC. 3690. Ph: 02 6024 4222 W: www.awrvworld.com.au E: matt@awrvworld.com.au
Mobile Tech
52
It’s social media with pictures – or is it the other way around?
Mobile Tech
53
Take a photo or choose one from your library, crop, add a filter effect and off you go.
Y
ou might have heard of Instagram amongst the melee of other social media names like Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Foursquare, Tumblr and Pinterest – to name a few. In popularity terms Instagram is right up there because, whereas Facebook basically shares words you can add
photos to, Instagram shares photos you can add words to. Confused? Don’t be... Instagram is all about photos – either ones you take while using it or choose from your library – and it lets you add a range of fun effects, then caption them and share them with your friends. You can share with friends just within
the Instagram ‘universe’ or have Instagram also post your photos to your Facebook, Twitter and/or other social media accounts. Why would you use Instagram and not just post a photo directly on Facebook? Well, because the subject of an Instagram post is always
Mobile Tech
54
Instagram’s effects include picture frames, focus and contrast, as well as overall photo ‘style.’
a photo it’s usually far more interesting to your friends and family than just words. Plus, the range of fun effects let’s you enhance the look/feel/ mood of the image if you want to. Importantly, the Instagram app is far less complex than the Facebook app and you
can still Like and Comment on other Instagram friends’ photos.
looking for if you want it to be fun without becoming overwhelming.
Simple to setup and use, Instagram is available for Apple and Android devices and might just be the social media sharing solution you’re
Try it!
Mobile Tech Once you've got your photo looking good, add a caption and select your sharing options: other Instagram users, via email, across other social media platforms – or everything!
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Next Issue
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LOTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO! we talk with Sally and Dave Berry about their remarkable success, plus bring you some happy snaps from their earliest days. It should be fun!
M
ay 2013 is Trakka’s 40th anniversary – a significant milestone for any company. To celebrate we’ll be bringing you the second in our Meet Your Maker series, when
May 11-12
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Darwin 4WD, Caravan & Camping Expo Darwin Showgrounds, Stuart Highway, Winnellie. NT. • Open daily 10:00-6:00 (closes Sunday 5:00) • Free parking TBA • Adults TBA • Seniors TBA • Kids TBA
http://darwin4wdcampingexpo.com.au/index.html Click for Google Maps
Mr & Mrs iMotorhome are on the road again, this time taking Horizon Motorhomes’ Melaleuca from Sydney to Ballina via seaside Port Stephens, the beautiful Barrington Tops and the autumnally-draped New England district. It promises to be a scenic photo-fest as well
JUN
5-11May
24-26
MAY
24-26
as a great few days getting to know the baby of the Horizon range. All-in-all the next issue looks like being a feature packed one, so stay tuned and watch for it on Saturday, May 18! Until then why not follow us and Twitter on Facebook for breaking news, comments and a bit of fun? Keep safe!
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Hunter Valley Caravan Camping 4WD & Fish Show
Queensland Caravan, Camping & Touring Holiday Show
Maitland Showground, Maitland. NSW. 2320. • Open daily 9:00-5:00 (closes Tuesday 4:00) • Free parking • Adults $15 • Seniors $11 • Kids Free
RNA Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills, Brisbane • Open daily 10:00-6:00 (closes 4:00 last day) • Parking limited, take the train • Adults $18 • Seniors $12 • Kids Free
www.ruralscene.com.au Click for Google Maps
www.caravanqld.com.au/showsevents/caravancamping--touring-holiday-show/show-details.aspx Click for Google Maps
Know of a local or regional show coming up that attracts and promotes motorhomes, campervans and the great RV lifestyle in general? Drop us a line at info@imotorhome.com.au and we’ll happily promote it in this calendar.