LIVING THE DREAM

No doubt most of us have been in the situation of being on holiday, having a great time, and thinking, "Woudn't it be great to live like this all year round." The idyllic setting makes us wish we could give up the drudgery of our normal weekday job, and move to the country or seaside to run a pub, or hotel, or even a caravan park!

Of course, the reality of being a caravan park owner is far from the peaceful and relaxed job we may imagine it to be. The smiling face that welcomes us on arrival, the cheery wave from the chap riding round on the cute little lawn mower, may hide the tired and disillusioned person who gave up the steady 9-5 secure job back home.

Our guide is meant to give an over-view of the process and problems of buying and running a caravan park. It may help, or it may put off. Either way it may help some decide whether running a caravan park really is "living the dream".

BUYING A PARK

There are 5 main types of touring or holiday home:

• touring caravans
• motorhomes
• tents
• caravan holiday homes (statics)
• park homes (residential)

There are several other forms of recreational accommodation, including various kinds of trailer tents, pop-up caravans, and wooden chalets.

Buying a caravan park
Park Australia specialise in handling the sale of caravan parks. We have several parks for sale on their website www.parkaustralia.com.au

If you want to know more about being a Caravan Park Owner, we will continue this topic in subsequent postings. Follow us on the link in the top right hand corner of this Blog and you will get an automatic note of the next posting.
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For Sale: Ravensthorpe Caravan Park, WA

Located on the edge of town only a short stroll to the main street, this 14 acre caravan park is set in amongst tall trees in a bushland setting.

The park is adjacent to the Fitzgerald River National Park and is a stopping point for many travelers commuting between Abany & Esperance. The park provides cabin and van accommodation both for travelers, workers & back packers. In its heyday the park provided accommodation for workers employed by B.H.P. building the new mine – when B.H.P. exited the town the whole area suffered whilst bad publicity prevailed.

The recent acquisition of the mine by Quantum Minerals a Canadian company will see new and invigorated activity in the town – with accommodation being at a premium – the Ravensthorpe Caravan Park is in a prime location and with much available development area available within the park and zoning advantages makes for the natural choice of the miners to locate to the caravan park.

Fitzgerald River National Park on the southern coast of Western Australia, is located 419km south-east of Perth, 180 kilometres north-east of Albany, 9Km west of Hopetoun and 215Km west of Esperance.

Fitzgerald River National Park is over 330,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness and is a renowned Biosphere Reserve, containing as one of the most rich and diverse botanical regions in the world.

Fitzgerald National Park is made up of rugged coastal hills

known as the Barrens. These stretch across from east to west, and feature diverse landscapes, protected beaches, rugged sea cliffs, steep ranges and extensive plains

Another feature of the park are the Spongelite Cliffs that can be seen along the Fitzgerald and Hamersley Rivers. These cliffs are made of soft rock formed millions of years ago and featuring the fossils of sea sponges.

For more details, call Dale Wood on 0417 811 035

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Considerations when Redesigning a Caravan Park

The primary focus of the design is to provide a higher quality of living and to create a favourable environment for both permanent and casual occupants. This is achieved by following the regulations and exceeding some of the minimum requirements. The result is a park that has a superior living environment with large lots and a large proportion of open space. 

Modern caravan parks are planned in a similar way to suburban subdivisions. The designs take into account factors including site area, lot size, floor space to lot area ratios, setbacks, road design, utilities and services, stormwater design, vegetation, solar access, audio and visual privacy, building materials, flood liable land and bush fire hazards. Most of these factors have applicable restrictions in regulations with the exception of solar access, vegetation and the privacy issues. 

The use of caravan parks has changed substantially since their origination as holiday destinations. In recent years there has been a shift in the pattern of use of caravan parks with an increase in the proportion of permanent residents. This changing pattern in tenants and use has created new planning issues in the design of caravan parks. These changes have prompted new legislation and regulations to be implemented. As the demands on caravan parks continue to change the planning and design methods will need to evolve also. 

Using an expert Planning Service offered by Park Australia through their Park Planning division, ensures that all aspects of upgrading a Caravan Park are adequately covered and the park becomes the ideal place for the market of the area.

Contact Park Australia's Planning Expert, Dale Wood, for a greater understanding of what is needed to bring your park into a modern holiday establishment. Dales email address is dale@parkplanning.com.au
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More Roadside Facilties Planned for Caravanners

Caravanners will have dedicated road stops vvithin 350km of each other under a plan to create an ex­tensive caravan and recreational vehicle network around WA.

Tourism WA is working on the plan which Tourism Minister Kim Hames hopes will be completed this year It will identify "gaps" in the road system where facilities are not available for caravanners and rec­reational vehicle drivers — partic­ularly water supplies, toilets, show­ers and waste disposal sites.

Dr Hames said it was important to make caravanning as attractive as possible, especially with 20 per cent of WA's population retired or approaching retirement. With more disposable income available, these people were likely to consider caravanning as a holi­day option — and an alternative to cheap overseas holidays.

"There are two aspects to making caravanning more enjoyable," Dr Hames said. "It is important that we have enough caravan parks in key towns around the State to be able to cope with peak-period de­mand."
"But the journey to these towns also needs to be comfortable."

"I am told that most caravanners like to travel at about 85km/h about four or five. hours. SO that means they need stopping facilities every 300-350km. That's our aim."

Dr Flames said the caravan-friendly town of Wongan Hills was a good example of what could be achieved.

"I am told visitors to the town have increased fivefold in recent times — largely from the caravan market," he said. "Having that many people coming to the town is obviously good for everyone, in­cluding the local businesses.

"We want to create lots of Won­gan Hills all over the'State."

Tourism Cceincll chief executh Evala Hall said caravanning wt important to the tourism industr because it helped ensure loca took their holidays in WA.

But he said it was important tl proposed new caravan stops did re have an adverse impact on esta lished caravan park owners an businesses.

Dr Haines said representath bodies for local caravan and recr ational vehicle owners would he] create the network plan.'

He would then approach Regioi al Development Minister Brenda Grylls for Royalties for Regior money.

Caravan Park Plans Completed

Park Planning has successfully completed upgrade plans on two parks, one in Tasmania and another in Western Australia.

1) Mersey Caravan Park:- Cavenport, Tasmania.

Arial View Of Mersey Bluff

The design concept has just been completed with the assistance of Planning Partner, Hansen Partners of Melbourne. The changes to the park will be put into action very soon.

Gnowangerup Aerial View

2) Gnowangerup :- Western Australia.
One of many planned "Roadside Stops" which will be built in WA, the first of these was Wongan Hills which is 2 hours north of Perth. These "Stops" are being considered at intervals of 300-350kms which is about the time of 4 -5hrs driving which most caravanners swee as a daily limit. See future Blog for more details of Wongan Hills.

Some planning work still in progress are:-

• Broken Hill City Caravan Park, NSW.
• Jetty Caravan Park, Yankalilla, SA. (Working with the local Council)
• Rose gardens Caravan Park in Albany, WA. (for the Acclaim Group)
• Big 4 Caravan Park, Port Douglas, Qld. (for the Brady Family)
• Two Caravan Parks in Perth for an undisclosed Developer.

If you would like more information on how we can assist you in re planning your Caravan Park, call Dale Wood on 0417 811 035 and he will be delighted to come and discuss your needs.
You can also see more by visiting our web site at www.parkplanning.com.au

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New Life in Mandurah?

Are you seeking a new way of life? Why not look at this delightful Caravan Park in Western Australia, just outside the ever popular Mandurah.

Dawesville Caravan Park & Holiday Village is currently on offer for a Leasehold Sale.

“Once in a lifetime” is what best describes the opportunity to purchase this unique and exciting business. In a world driven by the hustle and bustles of everyday life, Dawesville Caravan Park & Holiday Village offers an opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy everything the Peel Region has to offer.

This business opportunity will provide the successful buyer a rare combination of lifestyle and financial prosperity. 

The Dawesville Caravan Park & Holiday Village is located in an area rich in recreational and holiday pursuits including fishing, crabbing, sight seeing, nature walks, swimming and jet skiing just to name a few. Its location and proximity to the Dawesville cut and boating ramps makes it an ideal “home base” for the visitors to the area. 

Some of the amenities and facilities on the park include barbecues, swimming pool, launderette and tennis courts.

Dale wood is your first point of contact, try him on 0417 811 035, he will be delighted to show you this unique property which could be just the change you are seeking.......

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Escape to the Country!!

 Warehouse Matrix:

This is a very successful, profitable and unique business based in country South Australia, but providing an essential service to most of the state. Being located only 60 minutes north of Adelaide is a bonus.

Established 20 years ago, this family owned and operated business has grown and developed into the success it is by providing and maintaining high standards of customer service including prompt delivery.

Over 18 experienced staff members include sales personnel, administration and account support along with staff in the store. All are committed to the company slogan: “to deliver what you want, when you want it” .

Careful attention to company procedures, systems and cost control have meant years of continued growth and profits. The structures are in place for a new owner to build on the solid base established by the Wildman family.

Plant and equipment is maintained to the highest standards. The business is offered for sale due to the retirement of two partners.

Currently, the business operates out of ideal premises in the town of Balaklava. The premises are leased from a related entity.

The purchaser of the business has the opportunity to purchase the freehold land and buildings along with a very substantial adjoining residence if they so desire.

Warehouse Matrix provides a comprehensive range of necessary products to many diversified industries including government departments like schools, hospitals, health care and hospitality. We cannot do justice to the product range here but a visit to www.warehousematrix.com.au will elaborate for help you.

 
This is a special offering. A substantial business with country lifestyle.

If you would like more information, talk to Murray Fielder in our SA office or on  0407 835 073 or visit our web site at www.parkaustralia.com.au

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Caravan Parks for Sale

Rest Point Holiday Village, W.A.

Specialists in Caravan Parks for Sale in South Australia, Western Australia and Northern Territory."
Each business is as unique as a fingerprint, so 'rule of thumb' does not often apply. Specialisation is the key. 

The depth of experience in Park (Australia) Business Consultants enables the company to offer specialist advice to suit the particular situation at hand.

If you are looking for Caravan Parks for Sale - you have come to the right place.

Specialists in tourism, hospitality (resorts, caravan parks & motels) & associated business industries (manufacturing, wholesalers, distribution & retail)

Here are just a few that are currently available

	NT	Shady Lane Tourist Park - Katherine
	SA	Whyalla Caravan Park
	SA	Meningie Caravan Park
	SA	S.A. Coastal Caravan Park
	SA	Riverbend Tourist & Caravan Park of Renmark
	SA	Port Pirie Beach Caravan Park
	SA	Pine Country Caravan Park - Mt Gambier
	SA	Clare Caravan Park
	WA	Kununurra Lakeside Resort
	WA	Porongurup Range Tourist Park
	WA	Ravensthorpe Caravan Park
	WA	Gingin Caravan Park/Motel
	WA	Bremer Bay Beaches Resort & Tourist Park
	WA	Albany Happy Days Caravan Park
	WA	Rest Point Holiday Village

Talk to Murray Fielder in SA or Dale Wood in WA/NT

Dale Wood

Murray Fielder

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Design & Planning a Caravan Park

Park Planning is a division of Park (Australia)
the successful Caravan Park Sales group operating in South Australia, Western Australia and Northern Territory.

The planning and design details involved in the construction or reshaping of a caravan park are more involved today than in years past. It is a complex issue when considering designing a caravan park for today’s users and involves specific design and understanding of issues such as socio economic areas where the park is situated, which in itself adds many more varied considerations. Modern caravan parks can be likened to suburban subdivisions and the planning takes in many similar conditions. These include site area, lot size, floor space to lot area ratios, setbacks, road design, utilities and services, storm water design, vegetation, solar access, audio and visual privacy, building materials, flood liable land and bush fire hazards.  Read More:

Does your Caravan Park need a lift? Why not talk to THE GURU, Dale Wood. Call him on 0417 811 035. He would be delighted to help you.
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River Bend Caravan Park in Renmark has new owners.....

Riverbend Caravan Park

 “riverfront leisure at its finest”…….

Simply a fantastic location, business & lifestyle. This offering is one of the best presentations in one of the best locations we have seen in 20 years.

The total holding of 11 acres has approximately 600 metres of pristine Murray River frontage.

Renmark, with a population 11,000 and offering all of the medical and community facilities you would expect in a major regional town, is 254 km north east of Adelaide and 142 km west of Mildura.  Entry to the park is directly off the Sturt Highway, a major East-West tourist and commercial route. 

This is a strategic tourist location combined with a strong demand for seasonal worker accommodation and with a very pleasant year round climate ensuring minimal seasonal fluctuations.

A feature of the park is the high number of repeat guests who re-book as they depart. Local events like hot air ballooning, skiing and other festivals are a draw-card. The park offers mooring for jet skis and boats and safe swimming areas.

ABS statistics show 13,000 guests stayed in 2008/09.

The vendors have invested many hours and dollars developing this spacious, carefully planned and well established park layout and garden areas.  Guests enjoy shaded and lawned areas throughout the park to the waters edge. 

Scope for further development.

Guest enjoyment is enhanced by two undercover free BBQ areas with new appliances, a playground, a jump pillow, canoe hire and 3 avaries.  Occasionally, a family of kangaroos will pay a visit to entertain, otherwise, feed the friendly bushtail possums and koalas.

Riverbend Tourist & Caravan Park of Renmark is a member of the Top Tourist Parks Group and offers a range of quality guest accommodation consisting of:

10 Deluxe ensuite waterfront cabins with paved undercover outdoor area

  7 Ensuite cabins

  4 Non-ensuite cabins

50 Powered sites – some waterfront, all grassed with earth leakage protection

  6 Un-powered grassed sites

10 On-site vans and 10 Sites for semi-permanent vans

Some powered sites are “drive through” to cater for larger rigs and buses.          

Guests are served with two excellent amenities blocks, a well fitted laundry with adjacent clothes lines.

Well behaved pets are welcome, by arrangement, at non peak periods.

Recent upgrades to earth leakage protected powerheads and the parks fire hose systems has produced a substantial reduction in insurance premiums.

The Owner’s/Manager’s residence is as good as you will see in a caravan park. Waterfront, with open plan kitchen, dining and family area, 4 bedrooms (ensuite to main), second bathroom, separate WC and laundry.  Large undercover carport for at least 4 vehicles.  Easy access to spacious reception and office.  

We want to welcome Julie & Timothy Jenkin to the Caravan Park Industry and we know they will have a ball running this successful park.

Murray Fielder worked with Julie and Tim to ensure that they experienced an easy controlled transistion.

If you either want to seel a Caravan Park
or even buy one,
contact Murray on 0407 835 073












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Sustainabilty in Caravan Parks

One area of planning a Caravan Park that should be considered in any plans is SUSTAINABILITY, included in this is consideration for the carbon generated within a Park. Therefore below we briefly discuss this and a couple of other thoughts.

Carbon Monitoring

Consideration should be given to the use of a simple Carbon Management tool that measures and monitors each caravan park's use of:

·     Electricity

·        Gas

·    Petrol

·    Diesel

·     Mixed Waste

·    Water

·    Paper

A Carbon Management system that you could consider is an affordable user friendly web based tool that complies with international greenhouse gas conversion protocols. Consistent use of this tool across the sector will allow for a comparison between participants on an emission per square metre basis. Read More.....