GAINING accreditation for Mildura to become recognised as an RV friendly town is a “no brainer”, according to north-west Victoria’s Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia representative Alan Cameron.
Mr Cameron said RV park developments had been blocked in Mildura by a local law that prohibits overnight parking anywhere except in a caravan park which meets the requirements of the Victorian State Tenancy Act.
However, Mr Cameron said the Mildura Council’s draft RV, Caravan and Camping Strategy provides an opportunity to “catch up with the times” and provide a timely boost for the local tourism and hospitality sectors.
Mildura Council is seeking public feedback on the strategy which aims to see the region capitalise on opportunities to grow the RV, caravan and camping business
According to the strategy, Mildura was well placed to become a major hub for RV, caravan and camping travellers, but robust, considered, and ambitious planning was needed to enhance visitor experience, increase expenditure and prolong stays.
Mr Cameron said Australians were now travelling more in their own “back yard” and, as a result, the recreational vehicle market was expanding rapidly.
He said it had been “extremely frustrating” that his lobbying of various council over past years had apparently fallen on deaf ears.
“Councils have never been prepared to discuss the proposal of RV camping, referring to a council Local Law which prohibits any form of camping or parking of recreational vehicles in the municipality, outside caravan parks which comply with the State Tenancy Act,” he said.
“We have been missing out all these years despite the closures of many caravan parks so it’s time for a rethink.
“It’s well and truly time for a change to entice these travellers to our region when other areas are reaping the benefit.
“Being an RV accredited city would provide an instant additional advertising space for those like me who go in search of accredited towns and cities to visit.”
The draft RV, Caravan and Camping Strategy said Mildura had the potential to be a major destination hub for RVs, caravans, and camping travellers due to its strategic positioning on the Sturt Highway, Calder Highway, Sunraysia Highway and as a gateway to South Australia and New South Wales.
The strategy is available for public comment until 5pm on Monday and can be viewed on the council website, or at the Mildura Visitor Information and Booking Centre on Deakin Avenue.
Submissions can be emailed to mrcc@mildura.vic.gov.au or online at yoursay.mildura.vic.gov.au.
