There are over 750,000 registered recreational vehicles in Australia and, as “Grey Nomads” begin to head north, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia is taking action during National Road Safety Week to provide tips and timely reminders about ways that campers can travel safely, have enjoyable experiences, and get home to their loved ones safely.
The country’s favourite buildings, bridges and icons light up yellow every night of this National Road Safety Week (16 – 23 May) in remembrance of the 1,200 lives lost, and more than 39,000 people seriously injured on Australia’s roads each year.
“During National Road Safety Week we are asking all drivers and road users to ‘Drive So Others Survive!’ said Peter Frazer, President, SARAH Group and Founder National Road Safety Week. “As a very large and very important road user group we welcome the support of the Caravan Industry because, like us, they recognise that everyone has a right to get home safe to their loved ones, every day, with no exceptions.
“With more caravans on our roads during peak holiday and traffic times, it’s even more important for both their drivers and others around them to be aware of keeping a safe distance to make sure everyone safely reaches their destination” Mr Frazer continued.
This comes at a time when campers traditionally look to head north in search of warmer weather. While there remains some hesitance and uncertainty when it comes to the risk of border closures, a recent survey showed that 65% of caravanners and campers were intending to travel north this season. The research also indicated increased desire from Australians who would not normally travel north, a likely result of the increased popularity of caravan and camping following the pandemic.
“We are eager to support this important initiative promoting road safety. This is timely for our industry as nomads plan their migration north, driving long distances on unfamiliar roads” said Keelan Howard, GM Marketing and Communications.
The past 12 months has seen many Aussies towing newly purchased campers and caravans, driving new motorhomes or dusting off product that might have been sitting in the shed during the lockdowns.
