RV Articles

BEST OF THE BEST RV INDUSTRY

2011-08-30T14:38:00.000+10:00

BEST OF THE BEST RV INDUSTRY AWARDS

Winnebago Industries has taken out a number of awards at NSW Caravan and Camping Industry Association’s Awards of Excellence including the Best of the Best Trade Industry Award, at a presentation night hosted by the Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW (CCIA) Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner at Ettalong Beach Club in NSW.

Chief Operating Officer, Ben Binns accepted the award on behalf of Winnebago. “It is a fitting result for all our staff who have worked tirelessly throughout the year in somewhat trying circumstances” said Mr Binns.

Winnebago was also honoured, for the third year in a row, with the Award of Excellence for the Best Manufacturer-Motorhomes, Campervans and 5^th Wheelers, and a Winnebago employee, Joel Bowmer, was recognised as Trade Employee of the Year.

Joel commenced at Winnebago as a trainee and has been at Winnebago for just over 3 years as a member of the manufacturing team. Joel has always been willing to learn, a fantastic attitude to work and a helpful, smiling disposition.

Winnebago has consistently fostered young trainees in a program designed to offer skills and knowledge to those with a willingness and aptitude to succeed.

Trade Employee of the year Joel Bowmer accepting his award from Warren Parrot

The Awards of Excellence is the industry’s highlight event which recognises business excellence in the caravan and camping sector and is the highest accolade that a caravan, RV or camping business can achieve.

In an economic climate rife with pessimism, the RV Industry is a shining light of optimism as people look to escape the stress of everyday life by opting for short holidays or extended road trips.

The ongoing effect on local economies, particularly those rural centres often suffering in other ways is enormous as the cash injection provided by Motorhomers including spending on food, fuel, Caravan Park accommodation and sightseeing.

The motorhome, caravan and camping and manufactured housing sector continues to grow. Trends show that caravan and camping visitor numbers continue to grow and that these travellers are continuing to increase their average length of stay and their average spend in caravan parks Australia wide, increasing 30.7% over the last year and a whopping 67% over the last 5 years in NSW alone.

2011-08-10T14:08:00.000+10:00

Why Winnebago

Reasons Why You Should Buy a Winnebago Motorhome:

Our company is 100% Australian owned and operated, building motorhomes since 1965.
Winnebago RV Help: a National roadside programme for all New Winnebago’s purchased.
Winnebago motorhomes have some of the highest resale values of any motorhomes.
Our Motorhome floors have a welded metal frame with block foam insulation and a metal under body that keeps out the grime and the heat from the exhaust and black asphalt.
We have welded aluminium framed side walls and roofs, block foam insulation bonded in a sandwich panel for the strongest ever side frame and roof. Class A and B and some class C models have a radius roof.
Our motorhomes are manufactured using the most advanced technology, materials and construction processes.
The laminating process is the only one of it’s kind in Australia using PUR hot melt adhesive.
All cupboard frames are solid timber which are screwed together, not stapled.
Windows are made from either safety glass, or a dual pane polycarbonate hopper, with a Safety exit in all models.
The entry doors on all motorhome models are insulated heavy duty doors with dead bolts for your security.
Our cab over beds are a tilt up design with a one piece mattress giving you more comfort.
Depending on the model but most windows are of louvre design giving you security when open and maximum ventilation for your comfort.
Some of our motorhomes now come with a high stop light for your added safety on the road.
All of our motorhomes are tested in our “Monsoon” test bay. This is just one of the ways we ensure quality control prior to your Winnebago leaving the factory.
We have the largest, purpose built motorhome production facility in Australia with large service bays and an extensive spare parts division.
More Dealers throughout Australia and New Zealand than any other manufacturer to tend to your needs with a range of tailored finance packages available.
All motorhomes are fitted with appliances that have service agents throughout Australia and New Zealand.
There is ample storage in all our motorhomes. The Longreach and Class A range have extra deep bins with pass-through storage sections.
Industry leading assurance, all our motorhomes come with a 2 year - 1 Million Km warranty with a 5 year structural guarantee*

TECH TORQUE - Power Inverters

2011-08-03T11:46:00.004+10:00

A power inverter converts DC power or direct current to standard AC power or alternating current, which allows you to run electrical equipment off your batteries for mobile applications, emergencies or simple convenience. They are simple to use and are a quiet alternative to starting a generator to run electrical equipment. There are many styles of Power inverters, they can plug directly into a cigarette lighter or a 12v socket. They might also come with jumperlike cables for connecting directly to a battery. Larger inverters can be hard wired into the bank of house batteries for the motorhome. Larger inverters can also be combination battery chargers as well. Your laptop, phone charger, television, video game player or portable DVD players are all examples of devices which an inverter will operate to get you through a long drive, assuming you’re not the one driving! Power inverters are great for camp sites without electricity. The toaster, blender, and bread maker can all still be used. You can plug in the digital movie camera to capture those great moments around the camp fire that you might have missed after the camera’s battery ran low!

Power inverters come in many models that vary in watts. The amount of wattage you will require on an inverter depends on the total draw of the devices you’d like to use. If you have a two-outlet inverter and will be plugging in 2 devices at once, add up the total wattage of both devices then add at least 50% more to account for peaks or spikes in the power draw. For example if your DVD theatre draws 100 watts and your laptop another 100 watts, a minimum 300-watt inverter is recommended. When using your power inverter continuously inside a vehicle that is not running, the engine should be started at least once an hour for 10-15 minutes to keep the batteries from discharging. Power inverters operate on the assumption that the battery is in good condition and fully charged. A weak battery will be drained easily if demands are too high. Using portable inverters from a cigarette lighter could leave you stranded so be sure to check the battery’scondition before using a power inverter in a stationary vehicle. If the power inverter is being used while the vehicle is running as in the case of a road trip, there should be no problem with the extra draw providing the battery is in good condition.

Power inverters produce one of three different types of wave output:

• Square Wave

• Modified Square Wave (Modified Sine Wave)

• Pure Sine Wave (True Sine Wave)

The three different wave signals represent three different qualities of power output and consequently, three different price categories.

Square wave

inverters result in uneven power delivery that is not efficient for running most devices. Square wave inverters were the first types of inverters made and are obsolete.

Modified square wave

(modified sine wave) inverters deliver power that is consistent and efficient enough to run most devices fine however the squarish waveshape can also confuse the timing circuits in some appliances that use the Mains Frequency to control a clock. This type of inverter is probably the most popular.

Pure sine wave

inverters are more expensive, but they also deliver the most consistent wave output. Some sensitive equipment requires a sine wave, like certain medical equipment and variable speed or rechargeable tools. The following points are a guide – there is a lot of variation in startup surge load and continuous load for similar appliances between makes/models.

Size of Inverter Required Type of Appliance, most appliances have their power rating stated underneath its base.

• 150 watts – Charger for cameras, laptops, and small power tools; DVD player; coffee grinder; kitchen mixer; printer; very small television (non LCD TVs have degaussing coils which can draw 500 watts on startup)

• 250 watts – Small TV, slow cooker, desktop computer, electric blanket

• 500 watts – Small fridge, freezer, small angle grinder, drill, large TV, washing machine (without heat)

• 1000 watts – Breadmaker, microwave (600 watts – keep in mind that the input power for a microwave oven is around twice its specified cooking power level, due to inefficiencies in converting to the very high frequencies needed for cooking – 2 thousand million hertz!)

• 1500 watts – Toaster, small airconditioner, chainsaw, vacuum cleaner, iron

• 2000 watts – Microwave (1200 watts), hair dryer, fan heater, iron

• 3000 watts – Large airconditioner

If you aren’t sure if the device you want to use requires a pure sine wave or not, call the manufacturer to ask. Or if you don’t mind the price difference any device will run on a pure sine wave, whether it requires it or not. The only drawback would be in spending more than you need to for your power inverter. Always use a power inverter that is rated high enough for the device(s) you are running and avoid adapters that would allow more outlets than the unit is designed to accommodate.

WINNEBAGO - Industry Award Winners in 2011

2011-08-03T11:26:00.000+10:00

Winnebago Industries is proud to announce that it has received three awards at the annual CCIA 2011 conference held on the glistening waters of the Central Coast NSW, at the Ettalong Beach Club. The theme this year was 'our industry is 'simply the best'' which aims to encourage businesses to not rest on their laurels and to constantly strive for success by continuously re-evaluating business plans to ensure long term success.

At the Awards of Excellence 'Hollywood' Gala Dinner, Winnebago Industries took out the prestigious 'Best of the Best NSW Trade Business 2011'

Joel Bowmer's hard work was recognised by the Industry, and he was awarded the EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR award; an enormous feat as he was chosen from all RV Manufacturer staff, Dealer staff, suppliers to the industry staff and other associated trade organisations staff.

Winnebago proudly accepted the prestigious award of Best Manufacturer Motorhomes, Campervans & Fifth Wheelers. It is award which pays tribute to the effort and professionalism Winnebago employs to ensure that they produce the best vehicles Australia wide.

Winnebago's Upmarket Esperance

2011-08-03T10:58:00.004+10:00

ESPERANCE PREMIUM A 2634 SL

Winnebago's highly successfuly and ever popular Esperance model range of 13 differing floorplans has now been expanded by one more, a unique and stylish motorhome - the all new Esperance Premium.

The Esperance Premium offers the space and comfort of an A class motorhome yet in a convenient size. At only 8 metres long, the Esperance Premium provides the practicality of a mid-sized motorhome but with an extremely spacious feel to it.

The Esperance Premium is an A Class motorhome meaning that both the cab and the motorhome body are especially manufactured rather than just incorporating the standard chassis cab. A class motorhomes offer the advantage of a wider more spacious, easily accessible cabin as the cabin width is the same size as the rest of the motorhome unlike the traditional motorhomes built on a cab chassis where the cab is somewhat narrower.

Sit back and relax in the ultra-leather driver and passenger armchairs which swivel to form part of the living area. The huge one piece windscreen provides exceptional views of the passing scenery. All your instruments are conveniently located thanks to the large wrap around dash, controls such as the very handy cruise control function, just set your speed and enjoy the journey.

The kitchen is a gourmet’s delight with full oven, grill and cooktop, exhaust fan and sink with hot and cold water. The refrigerator offers a larger freezer and automatically controls the use of power, switching itself to 240 volt, battery or gas as required thus your food and drinks will remain cold.

The rear bedroom area has a large walk around bed that comfortably sleeps two, if you would like to bring along a couple more guests, just pull down the bed above the driver and passenger seat or convert the roomy dinette.

The bathroom is located at the rear with separate shower and toilet facilities and as the toilet is not part of the shower recess, it remains dry. The porcelain bowl toilet flushes to a large sealed wheel-along cassette.

Apart from the luxurious necessities, Esperance Premium offers a host of standard items such as remote controlled roof air conditioning for heating and cooling, a separate ducted diesel furnace system as well, a large LCD television with inbuilt DVD player inbuilt, a 7” colour screen GPS system incorporating a reversing camera and DVD player.

Esperance Premium further expands the already impressive Winnebago model range, joining the well-known and popular models, both campervan and motorhome – Escape, Diversion, Birdsville and Birdsville Elite, Esperance, Menindee, Longreach and Classic and the other two new models, Eyre and Ceduna.

Winnebago Scoops Industry Award

2010-08-23T16:44:00.004+10:00

WINNEBAGO SCOOPS INDUSTRY AWARDS

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE, SILVER GUMNUT, INDUSTRY EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Winnebago Industries has taken out a number of awards at NSW Caravan and Camping Industry Association’s Awards of Excellence presentation night at the Sheraton on the Park Hotel, Sydney on Wednesday July 28.

The much coveted award for BEST MANUFACTURER, MOTORHOMES, CAMPERVANS and FIFTH WHEELERS was accepted by Ben Binns, Winnebago’s Chief Operating Officer. “It is a great honour to receive such an award and credit was due to the team effort of the more than 200 employees employed by Winnebago” Mr Binns said.

Family owned and 100% Australian, Winnebago Industries is Australia’s No. 1 motorhome and campervan manufacturer. Established in 1965, Winnebago locally designs and builds a wide range of motorhomes and campervans at its state of the art factory in Emu Plains, Sydney.

Long serving Winnebago Employee, Symmon Bruce was recognised by the Industry and accepted the EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR award chosen from all RV Manufacturer and Dealer staff, suppliers to the industry and other associated trade organisations. Symmon thoroughly deserved the accolades bestowed on her for her loyalty, hard work and her determination to make a difference. Employees like Symmon, who has worked her way up from being a motorhome cleaner to the position of Inventory Manager at the Winnebago factory prove that opportunities exist for those who have a desire to succeed.

Earlier in the evening, Winnebago had been awarded the BEST SERVICE and/or PRODUCT PROVIDER in NSW reflecting a proficiency and dedication in supplying parts, accessories and after sales service to our Motorhome customers.

Winnebago became the first trade organisation ever to receive the prestigious the SILVER GUMNUT award for environmental excellence. Each candidate for the award is assessed by independent judges based on a written submission and a comprehensive onsite inspection. Samantha Binns, Director of Marketing and the manager tasked with ensuring that environmental issues remain top of mind at Winnebago said “motorhoming and the environment tend to be in harmony and we are striving to extend that philosophy right throughout the manufacturing process” “Our next goal is to be the first manufacturer/retailer to receive the GOLD GUMNUT AWARD for environmental excellence, a challenge that we are determined to meet” said Ms Binns.

Winnebago Enters the Campervan Market

2010-08-23T16:30:00.004+10:00

Winnebago Escape and Diversion

Winnebago is intent on making inroads into the Australian Campervan market with the introduction of two unique and versatile campervans – Escape and Diversion.

Campervans are defined as a recreational vehicle built within the confines of a van body, in other words, an existing driveable vehicle is fitted out with furniture, bedding, cooking appliances and other features necessary to accommodate people whilst out on the road.

Most campervans on the market today are designed to cater for two people but Winnebago’s new Campervans take comfort and versatility to a new plateau and both models will cater for four people in style.

The Escape, a 6.4 metre campervan on a Fiat Ducato 3 litre turbo diesel and the Diversion built on a 7.5 metre Mercedes Benz Sprinter van both offer a number of unique features, most noticeably, an electric roll down bed which drops from the ceiling and can sleep two adults comfortably in addition to other beds for two other people, found within each campervan.

Most campervans are not self contained in terms of bathroom and toilet facilities, and those that are often have a very cramped shower recess. Winnebago has designed into Escape and Diversion, a very spacious expanded bathroom system offering privacy, room to move and incorporate a flushing toilet and vanity.

Versatility is the keyword for the WINNEBAGO ESCAPE and Winnebago, cleverly, has created a second living area which can easily convert to a huge “garage” area in the rear of the campervan – by storing the electric double bed against the ceiling and folding up the two single beds against the wall (or easily removing them), the space created can hold a motor bike or two, a quad bike, bicycles, surfboards fishing rods, all those things that enhance your time away with your partner, friends or family.

During the week, the Escape can double as the family car or as a “tradies truck” (optional equipment can be installed for shelving and the tool box) and then on the weekend, head off to those remote places for fun and excitement in your fully self contained campervan.

WINNEBAGO DIVERSION offers complete and utter luxury for driver and passengers alike. Spacious, refined, and highly equipped, you can relax in the soft front seats which swivel around else relax on the rear ultra leather sofa lounge which electrically adjusts to a sumptuous day lounge or comfortable double bed. Diversion can sleep four adults as it is equipped with an electric roll down bed which drops from the ceiling at the touch of a button.

Enjoy a fantastic meal from the large well equipped kitchen and like Escape, the bathroom is oversized in comparison to other campervans as to better accommodate your bathroom needs offering hot and cold showers, a flushing toilet, vanity and ample fresh water supply.

Winnebago supports its product with the best RV warranty on the market, a two year or one million kilometre warranty and a 5 year structural warranty as well as two years free emergency roadside assist for additional peace of mind.

Winnebago Escape and Diversion, two brand new Campervan models manufactured by

Australia

’s premier motorhome brand are bound to attract market attention simply for what both these campervans have to offer – style, versatility and a long list of standard specification which will surely impress the most discerning customer.

UPMARKET MENINDEE

2010-02-17T15:21:00.001+11:00

A MOTORHOME WITH SOPHISTICATION AND STYLE

Winnebago’s newest addition to an already extensive model range is a motorhome called Menindee and it is sure to turn heads where ever it may go.

Sophistication personified, the Menindee offers the discerning buyer every conceivable luxury and it is conveniently sized to travel to a multitude of destinations where, upon arrival, uniquely, the rear wall expands out, the living room wall likewise to create an environment designed for your total enjoyment.

Menindee is a small town located in outback New South Wales, a town around 110 kilometres west of Broken Hill and steeped in legend and history for Indigenous and European culture.

The area was known to the Barkindji people as 'Minandichee', and it is believed this is how the name originated. The nearby Menindee Lakes is a popular outback destination for Motorhomers.

The new Winnebago Menindee is also steeped in tradition, a proud heritage of superbly constructed motorhomes, a tradition Winnebago has maintained since building the first vehicle back in 1965, building undoubtedly the strongest and most durable motorhome on the market today.

Menindee incorporates the latest in engineering design utilising a full metal frame in the floor together with metal sheathing on the underside of the floor, the only motorhome manufacturer to do so.

The walls and roof are also supported by a metal frame, the wall affixed to the top of the floor, supporting the roof, thus creating a load bearing structure capable of withstanding considerable weight on the roof, the roof additionally coated with durable EDPM rubber for additional protection.

Each body panel is fully insulated to protect against harsh temperatures and lowers road noise to an extremely comfortable level.

Menindee will delight the discerning buyer with its impressive list of standard quality inclusions designed to offer a luxury lifestyle whilst exploring the varied Australian countryside.

Externally, the aerodynamic styling of the Menindee is enhanced by the full glossy metallic silver paintwork, highlighting the smooth curves of the low profile fibreglass nose complimented by the contoured skylight, the fibreglass skirt moulds and rear wall finish.

The deeply tinted flush fitting, large frameless windows accentuate the striking yet delicate lines of the motorhome.

Outside, the electronically controlled external awning extends out to provide shade whilst you relax and watch the large LCD television located in the external wall of the motorhome.

Located on the roof is a large satellite dish which automatically searches for channels to view from any of the three LCD televisions found in Menindee.

Convenient features proliferate in the Menindee, the BBQ gas fitting, electric entry steps, towbar, and the luxury of being able to slide out some of the external storage bins like they were kitchen drawer’s makes accessing the bins an absolute breeze.

Away from the hustle and bustle, away from the crowds or everyday living, electricity is generated by Menindee to power the many electronic features found in the motorhome. Two 100 amp deep cycle batteries power the motorhome; the chassis battery feeds the needs of the chassis.

A 22 amp battery charger maintains full charge to the batteries when on the move and the twin 80 watt solar panels located on the roof constantly trickle charge the batteries to ensure power is never lacking.

For that additional power boost or to operate the ducted roof air conditioning, a built in, extremely quiet internal start 2.3kVa generator with programmable energy command is a convenient feature.

Spacious yet manoeuvrable, the Menindee offers an especially large electric slide out wall in the living room, extending out almost a metre to provide space to live, space to breath, space to enjoy, accompanied by mid mounted electronic stabilizers for additional stability.

Uniquely, the Menindee is equipped with a second slideout, one that extends the size of the main bedroom by sliding out to the rear of the motorhome.

Offering greater headroom than the average motorhome, internally, the modern décor combines creams and whites, spectacularly contrasted against a background of dark timber plank look flooring and stylish ultra leather upholstery.

Down lights throughout compete with concealed ceiling and cupboard lighting to illuminate the Menindee in a way which takes your breath away – inviting, warm and oh so friendly.

The kitchen is a gourmet delight offering large sliding drawers, a spacious one piece stone look bench top with a stylish matched stainless steel sink and cook top, over the built in oven and grill.

The large 175ltr curved two door refrigerator freezer senses the power source and automatically changes over from 240 volt power, to gas or to batteries.

The bathroom is conveniently located to separate the bedroom from the living area and can be secured for privacy utilising large bi fold doors. Wash away the day’s adventures with a steaming hot shower, water splash avoided by the convenient shower screen door.

Professionally engineered and constructed on the world renown Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 5 series cab chassis, the Menindee performs effortlessly, day after day, kilometre after kilometre, powered by a 3 litre Intercooled common rail turbo diesel engine generating 140kw of power, coupled with a 5 speed fully automatic transmission.

The Menindee offers the driver and passenger, the security of ABS braking, twin safety airbags, ESP, ASR and other safety related functions.

Standard inclusions in the cabin include comfortable swivel front seats upholstered in matching ultra leather trim, automatic cabin air conditioning, electrically operated windows and mirrors, cruise control, remote central locking, trip computer, reversing camera and infotainment system incorporating a touch screen CD/AM/FM controls and Satellite navigation.

For total piece of mind, Winnebago offers a two year warranty on the motorhome construction and coupled with the extensive Mercedes chassis warranty.

Motorhoming in the Menindee is further enhanced by the two years free Winnebago RV Help emergency roadside assist program together with Winnebago’s national support network of professional dealers and service agents.

Specifications

Mercedes Sprinter 519	External length 7925mm	Living room slide out wall
3lt turbo diesel	Ext Length open 8450mm	Bedroom rear slide out wall
Power 135kw (184hp)	External width 2497mm	Padded ceiling lining
Torque 440Nm @ 1600-2600rpm	Ext width open 3040mm	Ultra leather upholstery
5 speed Automatic	External height 3270mm	Pull out sofa lounge
GVM 5000kg	Internal height 2060mm	LCD TV/DVD in living room
GCM 7000kg	Fully painted bodywork	LCD TV/DVD in bedroom
Light rigid licence	Striking exterior paintwork	LCD TVDVD outdoors
16” steel wheels with dress rims	Full fibreglass low profile nose	Windup TV aerial with booster
Dual rear wheels	Tinted skylight in nose	Ducted roof air conditioning
Rear wheel drive	Full fibreglass rear wall	Ducted furnace heater
75lt diesel fuel tank	Moulded side skirts	Porcelain bowl flushing toilet
30lt generator fuel tank	Cabin side steps	Separate shower and toilet
125lt fresh water tank	Electric awning	Gas/electric hot water
100lt grey water tank	Electric entry steps	Electric skylight
38lt toilet cassette	Outdoor entertainment	Automatic exhaust/fan
23lt hot water system	Outdoor LCD TV/DVD	Queen size Island bed
Two 4kg gas bottles	Gas BBQ fitting	Bed converts to day lounge
ABS braking system	Slide out storage bins	Ultra leather lounge
ESP stability control	Heavy duty tow bar	175lt AES 3 way refrigerator
Cruise control	Outdoor fold down table	Oven, grill and cook top
Remote central locking	Automatic satellite dish	Automatic roof vent
Electric windows	Twin 80w solar panels	Double bolt entry door with flyscreen
Electric mirrors	22 amp battery charger	Kitchen slide out draws
Twin safety airbags	150w personal inverter	Convection microwave
Trip computer	Built in 2.3Kva generator	Metal frame construction
Infotainment touch system	2 x 100 amp home batteries	Laminated body panels
Inbuilt GPS	Separate chassis battery	Metal sheathed under body
Colour reversing camera	LED down lights	Domed profile roof
Swivel cabin seats	LED concealed lighting	EDPM Rubber coated roof
Ultra leather cabin seats	Fluorescent lighting	Fully insulated body
Cabin air conditioning	Integrated monitor system	Side walls supported by the floor

SPECIFICATIONS CAN CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

NEW BIRDSVILLE ELITE MODEL RANGE

2010-01-22T10:15:00.004+11:00

Standard with leather trim

The ever popular Winnebago Birdsville model range has been expanded by the addition of an Elite range of Birdsville motorhomes.

Built on the strong and durable Fiat X251 chassis which offers a car like drive and amongst other things, valued features such as a powerful 3 litre turbo diesel engine, electric windows and mirrors, cruise control, central locking, ABS braking and driver and passenger airbags.

Each Birdsville Elite model, and there are six in all - twelve if the differing transmission types, manual or 6 speed automated manual gearboxes are considered, are all extended length models and at 24’ or 7.2 metres and offer a more spacious interior, enhanced by the unique and attractive two tone timber look throughout.

Standard equipment levels have been boosted by the inclusion of luxury items such as an electric entry step, a colour large screen reversing camera, an in dash UHF radio and tailored cabin carpet to add to the already impressive feature list offered in the Birdsville range such as roof air conditioning, LCD television with inbuilt DVD player, a large wind out awning, an automatic changeover three way refrigerator, a spacious bathroom with hot or cold running water, a flushing toilet and a gourmet kitchen with the latest inclusions.

A number of bedding styles are offered with the Birdsville Elite including a choice of a rear or mid island bed, or spacious single beds and some models have an additional bed over the cabin.

Comfortable seating in the living area offers ultra soft leather upholstery as standard including leather inserts in the two front bucket seats which both swivel around to create additional seating in the living area and niceties like the leather bed head offering a prestige look to a prestige motorhome.

To further differentiate the Elite range, the exterior is decorated by exclusive and style decals in either Silver/ Grey or Silver / Burgundy

The Birdsville Elite is fantastic value for money and is undoubtable the strongest built motorhome in its class in Australia incorporating metal framed fully insulated walls and roof with the addition of a thicker floor with galvanised metal under body protection, individual floor tiles and quality fittings, combined with a very competitive price tag, the new Birdsville Elite model range is sure to impress even the most discerning buyer

FIAT 500 CAR GIVEAWAY

2010-01-22T09:56:00.002+11:00

FIAT 500 CAR GIVEAWAY

Winnebago has given away a brand new FIAT 500 compact car to the lucky winner of a promotion conducted earlier on in the year. To be eligible to enter the competition for the fantastic FIAT 500 car, the only criterion was that you purchased a new Winnebago motorhome.

The lucky winner placed an order for a new Winnebago Longreach motorhome with Australian Motorhomes. Faye King Adams, of Dora Creek in NSW was speechless when advised of her win.

Faye, a nurse for 20 years, took delivery of her Winnebago Longreach 27’ in June from Winnebago dealership Australian Motorhomes at Bennetts Green near Newcastle. Since then, Faye, and her partner Alex, a recently retired truck driver, have undertaken a long trip up the coast and across to the Northern Territory and into WA. Faye loves driving the Longreach and commented “it’s just like driving a car” and “loves to drive it for hours”. They have owned Caravans before and have found their new Longreach great on fuel and was able to get into “all the places they wanted to stop”, including caravan parks.

Andrei Zaitzev, General Manager of Fiat together with Ron Warden, Dealer Principal of Australian Motorhomes, handed over the keys of the Fiat 500 to an excited couple at the Australian Motorhomes dealership, thanking Fiat, Winnebago and Australian Motorhomes for their good fortune.

The Fiat 500 is an ideal small car, modern yet functional, economical yet fully featured with seven airbags for passenger safety, an ABS Braking system, traction control and niceties such as power windows, central locking and CD sound system,

Faye and Alex love the freedom of motorhoming with all the self contained luxury offered. They have many more trips planned in their Winnebago Longreach and intend taking their brand new Fiat 500 car along for the ride as well.

THE LIFE CHANGE EXPERIMENT

2010-01-18T15:17:00.002+11:00

THE LIFE CHANGE EXPERIMENT

Bessie Bardot and partner Geoff Barker are giving up their colourful Sydney inner-city celebrity lifestyle for something more inspired.

The couple have given away all their possessions to needy strangers, to travel around Australia helping worthy causes and looking for new opportunities with baby daughter BlueBelle.

Winnebago is partnering with Bessie and Geoff by providing a Longreach C3136SL Motorhome to assist them in spreading the message of life change and more inspired living.

“The concept of the Life Change Experiment all started a few months ago from a deep and persistent desire we both shared to grow and experience more from our lives” Bessie said.

“As much as we appreciated the successes we have had, we both shared a gnawing feeling that life was passing us by. We had more to offer and more to learn and sitting at home, fearful of change, as we had been for so many years, was not going to help us discover what that was”

“The old saying ‘keep doing what you’ve been doing and you will keep getting what you’ve got’ rang clear one day when I recalled a story of ancient invading armies who burnt their ships to keep the troops focused with no thoughts of retreat”. Said Geoff.

“So in the same spirit we decided to leave no room for retreat. Give away our Mercedes, the entire content of our house, scooters, computers, cameras, designer clothing our successful businesses and social set lifestyle (approx $400000 in value) and step forward, unfettered into the unknown”

On the way Bessie and Geoff will be conducting seminars encouraging others to live life to the full as well as speaking to various well known personalities who have an inspirational story to tell. Already Bessie has interviewed Benny Elias, Susie Moroney, Jeff Fenech, Angry Anderson, Annalise Braackensiek, Deni Hines, Koby Abberton and Tania Zaetta and will put together a ‘share the wisdom’ section on the website.

“These are not your usual interviews, but a look under the bonnet at normal people who have done extraordinary things with their lives” says Bessie. “To be honest their answers really gave me a new perspective. I’ll be posting their stories on life, change, overcoming fears, success, spirituality and inspiration soon on our upcoming video blog”

With over 10 million hits on their website and 40,000 requests from needy Australians they have also decided to devote their travels to drawing attention and helping out with some of Australia’s most worthy unsung causes. Rallying the help of individuals and sponsors to provide much needed items and services they hope to encourage others to step out of the box, help others and live life to the full

Bessie Bardot is a businesswoman, author, television host and socialite. She married Geoff Barker, formerly "Commando" from the Australian version Gladiators, now a best selling author of 7 books and international speaker.

Bessie is an Australia Day ambassador and has completed three tours to the Middle East to entertain Australian, UK & US troops. She hosted her own national radio show on the Austereo network, and is a professional public speaker; CEO of Movers Shakers celebrity contact brokers and pr & media firm bubblemedia.

She regularly appears as a celebrity social commentator on various national TV and radio shows, speaking on topics such as women's issues, relationships and lecturing on personal branding, women in business, health, well-being, drive, organization, motivation and relationships. Bessie is also an award-winning, best-selling author of three books.

The Life Change Experiment is expected to run for around six months. Follow Bessie, Geoff and BlueBelle on their journey by logging into the Life Change Experiment website http://www.thelifechangeexperiment.com/.

GOOD MORNING NEW ZEALAND

2010-01-18T15:12:00.002+11:00

The McCafe Winnebago Cruiser

Winnebago has teamed up with McDonalds McCafe and New Zealand’s top rating morning show “Breakfast” on TV ONE, to bring McCafe coffee, pastries and the latest weather reports each morning to New Zealanders from the McCafe Winnebago cruiser as it travels throughout New Zealand.

The Breakfast Show's roving weather presenter Tamati Coffey is on road in the immediately recognizable Winnebago Esperance, covered almost totally in bright coloured signage announcing the arrival of the McCafe Winnebago Cruiser to a town near you.

The 6-week Breakfast road trip drives from Invercargill to 90 Mile Beach, stopping to do the weather live from a different town each morning. Tamati drives in to catch up with locals over a morning cup of McCafé coffee and uncover the best of the South & North Island.

Winnebago, who manufactures motorhomes from their large, state of the art manufacturing facility in Sydney Australia is represented by two dealers in New Zealand, both Central Winnebago in Hamilton and Freedom Winnebago in Christchurch who are actively involved in ensuring that the McCafe Winnebago Cruiser distributes steaming cappuccinos and tasty pastries to as many people as possible.

Under the colourful garb, the 8 metre Winnebago Esperance with the large slide out room, Australia’s top selling motorhome, has been modified to carry the two large coffee machines and a multitude of technology to bring to the Breakfast Show audience, all the beauty and wonder of New Zealand, live.

Follow the McCafe Winnebago Cruiser on http://www.tvnz.co.nz/

NEW WINNEBAGO ESPERANCE WITH REAR ISLAND BED

2010-01-18T14:57:00.002+11:00

NEW WINNEBAGO ESPERANCE

To add to the ever increasing line up of Esperance motorhome models, Winnebago has released the new Esperance Highline C2694SL and the Lowline B2694SL to the market.

These new models both feature a walk around rear island bed separated from the spacious living area by a large “dry” bathroom meaning that the shower is screened off from the rest of the bathroom and the porcelain bowl toilet.

Offering space and comfort, the 8 metre long Esperance motorhome also incorporates a large slide out wall in the living area which moves out at the push of a button to create additional room to enhance your comfort and enjoyment. Even the large 150lt refrigerator slides out, increasing the size of the already spacious kitchen.

The unique circular lounge with an adjustable table is perfect for dining, watching a DVD on the large LCD television or just relaxing with a book. Both the driver and passenger seats swivel to provide additional seating in the living area.

For your comfort, roof air-conditioning, operated by remote control will heat or cool the motorhome. Winnebago also provides as a standard feature, a ducted diesel heater which blows hot air throughout the motorhome. The heater can also be used whilst travelling. Heating and cooling is enhanced by the fully insulated metal frame motorhome body, the strongest on the market.

The cabin is comfortable and carlike to drive; the powerful 3 litre turbo diesel engine generates 130kw of power yet is extremely economical on fuel. Available in both 6 speed manual and automated manual transmissions, the Iveco 50C18 chassis also offers dual rear wheels, rear wheel drive, ABS braking, ESP stability, twin safety airbags, cruise control, central locking and electric windows. Winnebago has also provided as standard, an in-dash large screen infotainment system incorporating satellite navigation and a colour reversing camera.

Outside, the large roll out awning is great to relax under listening to your favourite CD on the external entertainment system. There is an external hot and cold shower as well as a gas BBQ fitting. The outside storage bins are large, more than capable of carrying items such as a BBQ or fishing rods.

Luxury on Wheels

2010-01-11T12:45:00.001+11:00

Bush Postcards

2010-01-11T12:39:00.002+11:00

WINNEBAGO TEAMS UP WITH SUNRISE AND MONTE DWYER

Winnebago is renewing the partnership with the high rating Channel 7 morning show, Sunrise with Mel and Kochie.

Following on from the highly successful “Weather Winnie” promo on Sunrise last year, the Winnebago Sunrise motorhome will soon be on the road again, reporting live back to “Brekky Central” to a huge national audience each week.

In a segment entitled “Bush Postcards” Monte Dwyer is driving a Winnebago Birdsville in search of fascinating human interest stories all around Australia and will be reporting live from the Motorhome.

Sponsored by Winnebago, Fiat and Telstra, the Winnebago Birdsville motorhome has been totally wrapped in advertising decal and, just like Millie, last years Weather Winnie, the motorhome will become part of many peoples life as they look forward to the next story as reported by Monte.

Director of Morning Television Adam Boland says Monte is back by popular demand, his recent one-off appearance on Sunrise proving a hit with viewers. "Monte's one of the legends of brekky TV - so I'm thrilled he's made the switch. You'll see him at his best, because travelling Australia is his first love."
Monte recently travelled more than 70,000 kilometres around Australia and wrote a book about his adventures. “For me, Bush Postcards is a logical extension of Red in the Centre, only this time instead of containing all these great characters in a book we'll be able to set them loose on your TV screens”.
Sunrise will be launching the promotion and presenting the Winnebago to the Sunrise audience on Monday October 20 from the plaza at Martin Place in Sydney.

Fuelling Your Dream

2010-01-11T12:20:00.002+11:00

THE NRMA VERIFY FUEL CONSUMPTION RESULTS

The Winnebago Fuel Economy Safari
From the Gold Coast Qld to Winton Raceway Victoria, July 27 to August 1, 2008

The results of Winnebago’s fuel economy run have been verified and released by the NRMA.

The official fuel consumption results over the 1400 kilometre journey from Biggara Waters on the Gold Coast to Winton Victoria are:

Winnebago Birdsville 23’ (7 metre) motorhome, Fiat Ducato chassis - 11.34ltr/100km
Winnebago Leisure Seeker 23; (7 metre) motorhome, Iveco Daily chassis 13.52 ltr/100km
Winnebago Longreach 31’ (9.5 metre) motorhome, Isuzu NQR chassis 16.47 ltr/100km
Winnebago Nullarbor 32’ (10 metre) motorhome, Kodiak chassis- 19.52ltr/100km
Galaxy Caravan 18.6’ caravan towed by a Toyota Landcruiser 20.52ltr/100km
Travelhome 5th wheeler 25’ 5th wheeler towed by a Nissan Navara 14.40ltr/100km
Fiat 500 Fiat 500 car 4.69ltr/100km

The Fuel Economy Run Team including Dawn Fraser and Dick Johnson

Winnebago , partnered by the NRMA, Dick Johnson Racing, Isuzu Australia, Iveco Australia, Fiat Australia and others conducted an RV Fuel Economy Run from the Gold Coast in Queensland to Winton in Victoria, arriving for the V8 Supercar series race to demonstrate that RV’s overall are the most economical way to see Australia.

“The results are a fantastic boost to the RV Industry” said Max Mayo from Winnebago Industries. “they demonstrate unequivocally that the cheapest way to see Australia is by Motorhome, especially when you consider that motorhomes are fully self contained so you can cook your own meals, sleep in the comfortable beds and enjoy the bathroom facilities thus avoiding expensive hotel accommodation and the necessity (and cost) of eating out every day”, Mr Mayo said.

Winnebago says that a saving of up to 75% on daily travel costs can be achieved because of the self contained nature of motorhomes.

The fuel consumption run closely replicated an actual journey over well travelled roads, mainly along the Pacific Highway to Sydney and the Hume Highway to Winton, in differing weather conditions from calm and sunny to windy and showery.

The vehicles all carried loads expected by private motorhome owners, water tanks were filled and the drivers, including Dawn Fraser, were just your average driver. The style of RV varied in different styles, lengths, weights and engine power in order to demonstrate the fuel usage in each combination.

The NRMA monitored fuel consumption from start to finish, an official NRMA car accompanied the Fuel Economy Run and staff from the NRMA fuelled each vehicle and sealed the fuel filler cap with special security “anti tamper” tape, recording the odometer reading and litres filled for each of the official RV’s”

“We are grateful to the NRMA who was more than happy to come on board, recognising the value of the messages the safari was attempting to deliver” said Mr Mayo.

Fuel is a topical issue and at risk for rural centres is a great deal of money because at any given time around 75000 RV’s are on extended travel and on average they spend $600 each week on fuel, accommodation, food and entertainment. That’s $45 million per week given to mainly rural centres. If travel plans were curtailed because of fuel costs, rural centres would suffer severely.

Also travelling with the Safari was number of Winnebago RV Club members, and whilst their fuel consumption was not monitored by the NRMA, each motorhome kept meticulous records of each fuel fill and the distance travelled. The results achieved mirrored the official result very closely.

Motorhome Safari of a Lifetime

2010-01-11T11:41:00.001+11:00

DAWN FRASER, EXPERIENCED MOTORHOMER AND SAFARI PARTICIPANT

32 Motorhomes of the Winnebago RV Club are heading off into the wide open spaces of the Red Centre on a journey that many can only dream of – a journey from Echuca on the Victorian/NSW border through to Alice Springs, arriving to attend the opening ceremony of the Alice Springs Masters Games

Accompanying the safari is experienced motorhomer and Australian Sporting Legend, Dawn Fraser who recently announced a return to competition swimming by competing at the Alice Springs Masters Games.

The group of 32 motorhomes will wind their way from Echuca, up along the mighty Murray River experiencing the townships of Swan Hill and Mildura before visiting Broken Hill and the iconic town of Silverton, laughter, fun and adventure along the way.

They will be visiting a number of community events, giving locals the opportunity to meet Dawn Fraser and to talk to the Safari members about their experiences.

Their adventure will then take them to the captivating surrounds of the Flinders Ranges and Wilpena Pound in South Australia. Tracking north, they will explore Woomera (famous for its rocket base) and Coober Pedy the "Opal Capital of the World" which is unique for its underground homes.

The safari will visit Uluru and take in the mystical qualities of the famous rock and the nearby equalling inspiring Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon; before arriving in Alice Springs, just in time for the Alice Springs Masters Games.

A normal safari day starts with a hand delivered daily newsletter to each motorhome, before meeting up for a catered breakfast and the morning briefing. Motorhomes then leave at leisure, travelling in convoy is not compulsory, thus allowing everyone to do as they please – sightseeing, shopping or even a sleep in.

Accommodation varies from luxurious tourist parks packed with facilities, but in many ways, the bush camps in secluded bush locations are often preferred, often beside the river, where birds abound, the only sounds to be heard are those of nature, where the campfire blazes in the evening and the stars are there for the touching.

Most evenings, the happy hour circle forms around the WRVC “Hut” the evening briefing is given between drinks and snacks, Kenny Koala is auctioned off with all proceeds donated to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the evening activity gets underway, whether a BBQ, a catered dinner, a theme night like “come in bad taste” a movie night, trivia or bingo. A great deal of fun is had by all.

The Safari finishes on October 10 and, now friends for life, the farewell dinner is a time for fun and for recounting recent memories, promises made, future destinations agreed. Tomorrow is the start of the Alice Springs Masters Games.

The Alice Springs Masters Games is an event conducted every second year and attracts over 5000 competitors for all forms of aquatic and athletic competition “It is a great event that really encourages the ‘give it a go’ attitude” said Dawn Fraser who has been Patron since 1986. “There’s no better place to make my re-entry into the pool than in a friendly environment with thousands of competitors my age” Ms Fraser said.

Dawn has travelled in her motorhome for the past 2 years visiting places as diverse as Lightning Ridge, NSW to Mt Isa, Longreach and Normanton at the top of Queensland to the delights of Hobart and Strahan in Tasmania all with the WRVC.

New 27ft Longreach Ready to Roll

2010-01-11T11:38:00.001+11:00

WINNEBAGO 8.2m LONGREACH MODEL C2735SL

The first of the eagerly awaited Winnebago Longreach C2735SL motorhome has just rolled off the production line and soon, stock will be rolling out to Winnebago Dealerships right around the country.

The new C2735SL Longreach is a 8.2 metre luxury motorhome built on the rugged Isuzu NQR450 AMT chassis, a total package providing more than the most hardened motorhomer would rightfully expect

From the outside, one of the first things that catch your eye apart from the overall size of the motorhome, is the huge storage “boot” at the rear, a large area entirely the full width of the motorhome, available to store items for work and play. In addition, there are numerous storage bins located along each side of the motorhome, enough for the most fastidious motorhome traveller.

There are the twin 80 watt solar panels conveniently located on the roof of the motorhome, constantly trickling additional charge to the batteries. For those heavy power consumption items such as the ducted air-conditioning or the carousel microwave, a renowned Onan 3.6Kva generator with automatic start from the flick of a switch inside the motorhome, is built in as standard.

Another power feature is the 2000 watt inverter system which conveniently converts 12volt battery power to standard 240volt output so ordinary appliances and power equipment can be easily used.

The large domestic size shower is separate from the toilet and vanity and uses hot water, heated by gas or 240 volt power for a strong and reliable hot water supply.

An additional water tank is provided thus providing a massive 250 litres of fresh water for use in drinking, showering, washing the dishes and flushing the toilet although that doesn’t take much water, as it uses mostly compressed air to remove toilet waste into a conveniently sized cassette. Other used water empties into a separate “grey water” tank for easy convenient disposal.

Life in a Winnebago Longreach is comfortable, The kitchen is large and well designed and equipped for gourmet cooking. The sofa lounge offers comfortable seating, upholstered in soft but hardwearing suede material.

Watch the large LCD television screen with built in DVD player, enjoying the chilled air of the ducted air conditioning unit or the smooth heat generated by the air conditioner or the ducted diesel furnace heater. Day/night blinds are provided on all windows as are fly screens and a privacy screen across the front wind screen.

The main bedroom is separate from the living area and offers a comfortable queen size island envirofoam beds for a comfortable sleep. There is a large double bed located over the cabin and the sofa lounge converts to provide additional sleeping positions should they be required.

Outside the motorhome the features continue and include the outdoor entertainment unit – a sound system and TV connection, the large and sturdy roll out awning, a gas fitting for your BBQ, an external shower to wash off under hot or cold water and the standard tow bar, ladder and roof rack.

Complimenting a superbly equipped Motorhome, Winnebago have perfectly matched the all new Isuzu NQR450 chassis. The NQR 450 chassis is driven by a powerful Sitec Series II 5.2lt diesel engine meaning more torque and less fuel consumption. The NQR450 is one of the safest trucks around with side impact beams in each cabin door and driver and passenger airbags all protecting the occupants.

The Isuzu NQR450 incorporates the latest Automated Manual gearbox which offers an automated gear change. Where more control is desired, the gearbox instantly converts to a 6 speed manual gearbox but without a clutch. The braking system is superb incorporating both ABS and ASR traction control and a vacuum controlled exhaust brake for further braking capability.

The suspension system is equally superior with Winnebago adopting front Air Bag assisted multi leaf springs with double action shocks under the cabin for a silky smooth ride over the roughest of roads.

In the cab, all the comforts of a luxury car are apparent including comfortable colour matched bucket seating, power windows, power assisted steering, central locking, cruise control, driver and passenger airbags and the infotainment system, a large screen display including a GPS navigation system, a colour reversing camera, a CD/FM/AM stereo system, ipod and Bluetooth connectability

New Birdsville Elite Model Range

2010-01-11T11:36:00.001+11:00

The ever popular Winnebago Birdsville model range has been expanded by the addition of an Elite range of Birdsville motorhomes.

The Birdsville Elite model range is a step above anything currently on offer in this market segment. Incorporating a host of new standard inclusions, the Birdsville Elite range offers an easily discernable value for money and affordable luxury for an extremely competitive price.

Built on the strong and durable Fiat X251 chassis which offers a car like drive and amongst other things, valued features such as a powerful 3 litre turbo diesel engine, electric windows and mirrors, cruise control, central locking, ABS braking and driver and passenger airbags.

Each Birdsville Elite model, and there are six in all - twelve if the differing transmission types, manual or 6 speed automated manual gearboxes are considered, are all extended length models and at 24’ or 7.2 metres and offer a more spacious interior, enhanced by the unique and attractive two tone timber look throughout.

Standard equipment levels have been boosted by the inclusion of luxury items such as an electric entry step, a colour large screen reversing camera, an in dash UHF radio and tailored cabin carpet to add to the already impressive feature list offered in the Birdsville range such as roof air conditioning, LCD television with inbuilt DVD player, a large wind out awning, an automatic changeover three way refrigerator, a spacious bathroom with hot or cold running water, a flushing toilet and a gourmet kitchen with the latest inclusions.

A number of bedding styles are offered with the Birdsville Elite including a choice of a rear or mid island bed, or spacious single beds and some models have an additional bed over the cabin.

Comfortable seating in the living area offers ultra soft leather upholstery as standard including leather inserts in the two front bucket seats which both swivel around to create additional seating in the living area and niceties like the leather bed head offering a prestige look to a prestige motorhome.

To further differentiate the Elite range, the exterior is decorated by exclusive and style decals in either Silver/ Grey or Silver / Burgundy

The Birdsville Elite is fantastic value for money and is undoubtable the strongest built motorhome in its class in Australia incorporating metal framed fully insulated walls and roof with the addition of a thicker floor with galvanised metal under body protection, individual floor tiles and quality fittings, combined with a very competitive price tag, the new Birdsville Elite model range is sure to impress even the most discerning buyer

South Aussie Battler Million to One Win

2010-01-11T11:32:00.002+11:00

SANDRA PENNA AND HER NEW WINNEBAGO FREEWIND MOTORHOME

Sandra Penna, a resident of Fishermans Bay in South Australia was handed the keys to a brand new Winnebago Freewind Motorhome, excitedly watched by some of her extended family and her partner Bob Perry.

“I’ve never won a thing in my life and I rarely enter competitions” Sandra said “I cant believe this fantastic Winnebago is mine and I want to thank Winnebago, Iveco Trucks, OAMPS Insurance brokers and the Great Outdoors” she said.

A regular viewer of the Great Outdoors travel show on Channel 7, when the competition to win the motorhome was aired in July, Sandra said she just had a compulsion to ring up and enter.

That entry was literally; “a one in a million” as over a million entries were received by the Great Outdoors over the four weeks of the competition.

In handing the keys of the motorhome to Sandra, Max Mayo of Winnebago Industries said “it’s wonderful experience to be able to give this motorhome to such a worthwhile and deserving winner”.

Sandra, one of fourteen children herself has bought up nine children of her own, struggling to support her large family, working early on as a seamstress, not having a car and needing to constantly use public transport. Now her children are grown and have given her seven grandchildren whom she dotes on.

Sandra loves sewing and spends much of her time these days knitting jackets and hats for premature babies.

Sandra and Bob have travelled a little in a small caravan and now plan to take off with their Jack Russell terrier and “really do the big trip right around Australia in style” said Bob

The truck chassis that Winnebago built the motorhome on was donated by Iveco Australia and Rob Sinclair, Dealer Principal of Stillwell Iveco also presented Sandra with a BBQ saying “Iveco is proud to be associated with Winnebago and the Great Outdoors in providing a great prize to such a wonderful person”

The Winnebago Freewind B2362 that Sandra won is a 7 metre luxury motorhome driven on a standard car licence and incorporating such features as an electrically operated queen size bed that moves down from the ceiling at the touch of a button.

It is fully air conditioned with a ducted heating system, a large refrigerator, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, hot and cold water, shower and flushing toilet, LCD television with built in DVD player, a comfortable lounge and even an inbuilt set of walkie talkies.

Outside, the motorhome offers plenty of convenience to enhance the relaxed way of life motorhomes offer, with large storage bins, a wind out awning, TV Aerial, an external entertainment system, towbar, rear ladder, roof rack, BBQ fitting and even an outside hot shower.

The Winnebago Freewind is built on a powerful Iveco Daily 3.0 litre turbo diesel chassis with automated manual transmission, two airbags, power windows, power steering and central locking. Other features include cruise control, hill hold, ESP, air conditioning and a full AM/FM/CD sound system.

OAMPS Insurance brokers and Winnebago Insurance provided comprehensive insurance for the first year and the Winnebago RV Club gave Sandra three years free membership.

Sandra and Bob will be attending the wedding of one of their children shortly and then they are off to take in the sights and sounds of all that Australia has to offer and to call in to see their children, many of whom live in different parts of Australia. “Not sure when we will be back” laughs Sandra “but I cant wait to get started” she said.

Winnebago Launches New Esperance Range

2010-01-11T11:28:00.002+11:00

Winnebago Industries has expanded its already extensive Motorhome product line up by announcing the all new Winnebago Esperance motorhome model range, six unique and desirable models.

The first public viewing of the new Esperance will be at the South Australian Caravan and Camping Show held at the Adelaide Showgrounds from February 25 until March 1, 2009

The all new Winnebago Esperance range of motorhomes incorporates advanced, state of the art technology packaged in a brand new motorhome design all at an extremely competitive sale price…and they can be driven on a standard car licence or upgraded to MR for greater carrying capacity.

The Esperance offers stylish, comfortable and yet extremely functional living for short trips away and for those long, exploratory journeys to the far flung reaches, from shore to shore, experiencing the joy of adventure, revelling in the sensation of freedom, just relaxing in the comforts of everything that the Esperance model range has to offer.

Winnebago is a 100% Australian owned and operated company and, in continuing its philosophy of identifying with the Australian landscape, naming its motorhome model ranges after iconic towns and places, the new Esperance draws its name from the township of Esperance which lies along the southern coast of Western Australia, 721km from Perth and is part of Australia’s Golden Outback.

SEEMINGLY ENDLESS STANDARD FEATURES

The Esperance will be available in two styles with three models in each style. The low profile B Class model and the high profile C Class model with additional space over the cabin, offer a choice in size, living area and bedding and all are expansively and luxuriously equipped with air conditioning for cooling and heating, supplemented by a ducted furnace heating system.

The list of standard features is endless, externally, the large roll out awning, entertainment unit, a generator storage locker with slide, an external shower, BBQ fitting and extensive external storage amongst others.

Each Esperance motorhome is fully self contained to visit those out of the way places with all the comforts of home, carrying fresh water on board for showering or washing or for flushing the domestic style porcelain bowl toilet.

Twin gas bottles provide LP gas for cooking, cooling the refrigerator when mains power is unavailable, and heating water. Esperance generates sufficient power itself to operate lighting, the television and other appliances without the need to “plug in”. The 21st century state of the art LCD electrical control panel monitors all power systems and even provides temperature readings, inside and out.

Upon entering the Esperance, the thought given to the interior design is immediately apparent. The new colour coordinated fabrics are pleasing to the eye and the feeling of space is all pervading, complimented by stylish curved furniture, extensive kitchen bench tops and room to move.

TWO STYLES THREE LAYOUTS EACH

Spacious Island bed
The first of the Esperance models is a spacious 8 metre (26’) motorhome in both the low profile (B Class) and high profile (C Class) styles offering a walk around island bed and extended living area provided by the electrically operated slide out lounge room incorporating a sumptuous contoured circular lounge.

The lounge also offers dining facilities and provides additional seatbelts for passengers wishing to travel in style back in the motorhome, taking advantage of the panoramic display offered by the oversized lounge room window, or just taking in a DVD on the large LCD 12 volt Television.

Versatile Electric Roll down Bed
Esperance is available as a versatile 7.2 metre (24’) motorhome in both the low profile (B Class) and high profile (C Class) styles with the ever popular space saving Electric Roll Down Queen size Bed and the unique contoured circular lounge, The C2464 incorporates all the style, equipment and innovation that is sure to elevate the Esperance model range to a level of popularity perhaps never before experienced.

Unique Single bed/double bed with Garage under
A very unique layout is also offered in the Esperance range, an 8 metre (26’) motorhome in both the low profile (B Class) and high profile (C Class) styles offering single beds, easily converted into a queen size bed, and an impressive rear storage “garage”, a large space the full width of the motorhome capable of storing a motorbike, a couple of cycles or your other travelling “essentials”. The living area is huge thanks to electrically operated slide out lounge room incorporating a sumptuous contoured circular lounge.

IVECO CHASSIS

Winnebago has chosen to match the Esperance with the robust and reliable Iveco 50C18 Chassis, a proven package offering extremely economical operating costs from the 3 litre turbo diesel engine generating an impressive 130kw (176hp) of power, the smooth six speed manual or the automated manual transmission offering automatic gear changes or, at the flick of the wrist, the control of a clutch less manual gearbox.

There is an overwhelming sense of comfort in the cabin. Power windows, power steering, air conditioning and cruise control boost the enjoyment of extended journeys.

Driver and passenger airbags, an electronic stability program including ASR traction control, ABS braking system, the hill hold feature and computer readouts monitoring all aspects of the chassis offers the driver and passenger a high level of safety and complete control.

Enjoy the features offered by the exclusive centrally located infotainment system with its large colour LCD screen providing GPS navigation, FM/AM radio and CD operation and importantly, vision behind the motorhome as you are reversing.

BUILT TO LAST
Winnebago has employed new construction techniques to create an extremely strong motorhome capable of coping with the varying road conditions Australia has to offer, yet reducing the overall weight to allow the Esperance, a large motorhome, to be legally driven on a standard car licence.

The Esperance can be upgraded to a GVM of 5200kg to MR licence category for greater carrying capacity.

The motorhome body is structurally supported by a strong metal frame which incorporates thick insulating material in all walls, the floor and the roof effectively reducing road noise to a whisper and protecting the occupants from those extreme temperatures.

The floor is supported by the numerous steel cross members welded to the chassis; the underside of the floor is protected by metal sheeting, to withstand year after year, the mud, dirt, rocks, and water thrown up by the roads

The walls of the motorhome are located on top of the floor, not just attached to the side of the floor. The roof then sits on top of the walls thus the overall load is shared, creating a strong, robust motorhome body capable of withstanding the movement of a motorhome travelling on a range of road conditions.

The roof is domed to allow for swift water runoff and is covered by a hardy EDPM rubber membrane capable of withstanding harsh climatic conditions year after year, and with up to 100mm of insulation material built into the roof structure, climatic protection is well provided to the occupants.

All Esperance Motorhomes offer the peace of mind that each motorhome is supported by a national network of trained Winnebago Dealerships throughout Australia and New Zealand

A factory backed comprehensive warranty is provided with each Esperance motorhome and a national emergency roadside assistance program which will look after you no matter where you are travelling is provided absolutely free.

Winnebago RV Club Launches New Identity

2010-01-11T11:24:00.001+11:00

The fast growing Winnebago RV Club has launched its new logo to its 3000 plus members. “The new club logo aptly depicts what motorhoming is all about” said Max Mayo of Winnebago Industries, “the synergy in design between the maps of Australia and New Zealand and the bare foot describes the freedom our club members have, their ability to travel footloose and fancy free without any stress and pressure at all” said Mr Mayo.

The logo was selected after the Winnebago RV Club ran a competition in the club magazine, Out and About, asking club members for their designs. The winning design was selected from many entries and has been acclaimed as suitable and very appropriate.

The Club recently launched into New Zealand with the assistance of Barrons RV in Christchurch and already, the first New Zealand member’s safari has been developed and is ready to roll on November 21 for a delightful fun filled experience touring the northern region of the South Island.

The Winnebago RV Club in its current form was established back in 2004 for genuine motorhomes of any brand. Membership is not restricted to just Winnebago motorhomes although they do make up the large proportion of the clubs membership, but anyone with any brand of purpose built motorhome can join the club and take advantage of all the fantastic offers, benefits and events that the club offers on a regular basis…and the extremely competitive insurance products for their motorhome, house, home contents and car.

Members will shortly receive the newly compiled Coupon Discount book offering each member a comprehensive range of discounts, they can order online, discounted wine and spirits delivered to them anywhere in Australia absolutely free and can look forward to a comprehensive selection of events throughout 2009 including the fantastic Ballarat to the Barossa safari along the wonderful Great Ocean Road in February and even a sojourn up the iconic Birdsville Track on the Red Centre Safari around mid year.
For that footloose and fancy free lifestyle offering lots of laughter, friendship and fun, the Winnebago RV Club is worth a call.

Winnebago Wins Industry Award

2010-01-11T11:21:00.001+11:00

Best Manufacturer - Motorhomes and Campervans.

Winnebago Industries was announced as the winner of the 2009 Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW for Best Manufacturer - Motorhomes and Campervans at a gala awards dinner held recently at Cypress Lakes Resort in the Hunter Valley.

In accepting the award on behalf of Winnebago, Ben Binns, Winnebago’s Chief Operating Officer said it was pleasing to be able to accept the award on behalf of the Management and Staff of Winnebago. ”The whole team put in a fantastic effort in what was a fairly difficult year” said Mr Binns.

Two NSW Winnebago dealers, Australian Motorhomes and Sydney RV Centre were also recognised for environmental excellence with Geoff Bithrey from Australian Motorhomes at Bennetts Green near Newcastle accepting the coveted 2009 Excellence in Environmental Innovation award and the Bronze Gumnut award for achievement whilst Jeremy Pearce of Sydney RV Narrabeen accepted the Bronze Gumnut Award for environment achievement.

The award for Best Manufacturer - Motorhomes and Campervans, received by Winnebago for the second year in a row is recognition of the professionalism applied and level of detail found at every level of manufacture, ensuring the delivery of a quality motorhome to the marketplace, one that will serve its owner for many years.

Each Winnebago is handcrafted by the highly trained staff using quality materials throughout. The floor walls and roof of each Winnebago motorhome consist of a fully welded metal frame to provide strength and rigidity, fully insulated to dampen road noise and moderating internal temperatures to a comfortable level. Further, the floor is lined with galvanised metal for unique under body protection against road debris.

Winnebago’s commitment to the environment was also considered by the judges. Winnebago consulted extensively with local environmental groups and local government to achieve practical environmental outcomes and the introduction of energy efficient lighting, ground water capture tanks, electronic roof ventilation, native plants and thoughtful waste recycling are just a few of the measures adopted.

Winnebago Wins Top Industry Award

2010-01-11T11:17:00.001+11:00

Winnebago Industries has been awarded with the NSW RV Industry’s prestigious RV Trade Award – The Best of The Best Award, at a glittering presentation ceremony at the Novotel North Wollongong Grand Ballroom on July 24, 2008.

In accepting the award from the CCIA, Ben Binns, Winnebago’s Chief Operating Officer, said “it is a great honour and a little overwhelming to receive such an award and it was due to the team effort of the more than 200 employees employed by Winnebago” Winnebago Motorhomes are produced at the manufacturing plant at Emu Plains, west of Sydney.

Earlier in the evening, Winnebago had been awarded the best trade Motorhome manufacturing facility in NSW.

Established in 1965, Winnebago has been producing Motorhomes in Sydney for 43 years. Surprising to many, Winnebago is a family owned Australian Company with no connection to the American company of the same name.

Winnebago produces the largest range of motorhomes in Australia, all classes and sizes from 7 metres to 12 metres long and for all budgets and takes great pride that all motorhomes built fully comply with all of the Federal Governments safety and design regulations.

In an environment where many manufacturing concerns are leaving Australia for overseas destinations, Winnebago is expanding its manufacturing facility at Emu Plains, which currently produces a motorhome every two hours to maintain the around 40% market share it currently holds.

The new plant, located adjacent to the current factory is expected to begin operating early in September. “This reflects the confidence we have in Australia’s future” said Mr Binns, ”the new plant will expand our capability to meet market expectations, after all, there are a lot of baby boomers out there, and many are discovering the freedom of seeing Australia in a fully self contained motorhome”.