Shows and events

[van quish]

Hi all,

I'm new here and only joined a few days ago. I'm all dubbed up with a 2.5TDi T4 and loving it (ive posted in the newbie thread - its yellow man ).
We are planning on moving to Vic in 2012 and intend on getting another T4 or maybe T5. But whats the scene like? what events are there? Is there a van festival anywhere - is there enough call for one.

I know we are pretty spoilt for van events in the UK (theres an event or show practically every weekend through the summer - you know the time of year where it rains a little less than normal). No offence meant at all but I dont really get off on weekenders looking at cars - maybe time will change my narrow minded ways

Wish I could bring my van over with me but KER CHING !!!!! ££££££ stupid money.

[4wheels]

Hi James,

Australia is a big, spread out country, so if you have some idea of where you're going to settle, that will help with your question. There's not so much of a specific van scene here, but lots of VW interest. If you're coming to the south eastern corner (specifically Melbourne) have a look at www.vwclub.com.au . At least half our membership is into Kombi's (mostly bays, but a few newer ones), and we do a lot of camping weekends. There are other clubs and events interstate. You could look for 'the Volkswagen Spectacular' at Valla, and the Old Bar festival, both on the north coast of NSW. These are about 1400km (about 850miles) from Melbourne, but quite a few people make the trip. A few 'mad' ones go just for the weekend.

I'm not sure how prices compare to the UK (probably dearer here), and there's not nearly as much after market accessories available. There's quite a lot of T5's used as ambulances here, which are turned over every 3 years or so. These can be good buying if your up for doing your own camping conversion. Have a look here http://www.manheimfowles.com.au/ .

Good luck, and let's know if you are coming to Melbourne.
(Oops; just re-read your post, and see you are coming to Victoria/Melbourne).

Brian
2007 T5 Trakkadu camper

[rob64981]

James,
I dont know if we have ever met in person but i used to be on the T4forum before being escorted to the door
I spend quite a lot of time on the Brickyard now because i like the banter.
I moved out to Adelaide November last year.

We love it out here so you are making no mistake moving to OZ.

Your comment about the amount of vans in the UK compared to OZ.
If i was you i would put lots of bits in your shipping container and buy a van out here to convert.
It costs quite a lot to bring out a newish vehicle and then you have to make it meet the OZ rules.
One thing i wish i had brought is a pop top.
NO ONE out here will fit just a roof or sell you one to fit your self.

Glad to see you have made it onto this website there are lots of people with lots of info.
Please PM me your email so we can keep in touch.

Rob

[van quish]

Cheers for the advice 4wheels - food for thought. I had seen on the forum that people convert the ambulances, that sounds right up my street.

Will have to get shopping for bits then and send myself a christmas parcel

Rob, whats with the pop tops then? why is it such a closed book. Ive never fitted one but lots of people do over here.
I'll have to make room in the container, chuck the sofa out and bring a couple of roofs then.