Community
21 May, 2021
Gordonvale named RV Friendly Town
GORDONVALE’S popularity as a destination for the drive market has been given another boost with its declaration as a RV Friendly Town by the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA).
Cairns Division 1 Councillor Brett Moller said the RV market was an important contributor to Gordonvale’s economy and recognition as an RV Friendly Town would provide greater exposure and boost visitation.
“This is a significant achievement and one that will enhance the town’s standing as a ‘must visit’ for the growing drive market,” Cr Moller said.
“Notably, Gordonvale will now be promoted to RV travellers across Australia through the CMCA club magazine The Wanderer, through the CMCA website and social media.”
The recognition comes after Gordonvale demonstrated its capacity to meet key criteria set by CMCA that ensures the town provides a certain level of service to recreational vehicle (RV) users, including:
• Provision of appropriate low cost overnight parking for self-contained vehicles
• Access to potable water and a free dump point
• Access to a general shopping area
Cr Moller said the $2.4 million upgrade to the Greenpatch campground in 2019 had paved the way for this accolade.
The upgraded campground, which reopened this week following its closure due to recent flooding, has 42 campsites and includes a new amenity block with toilets and showers, dump point and day-use facilities such as picnic spots.
“The economic benefits to the town of Gordonvale from the RV market visitation are well known and appreciated by our small business owners,” Cr Moller said.
“This facility has proved immensely popular with RV users. Last year, despite COVID closures and restrictions, the facility was used by more than 4200 vehicles, which equates to between 8,500 to 10,500 visitors.
“We can expect those numbers to increase as restrictions continue to ease and the number of registered RVs in Australia rise as more baby boomers enter the market.
“Gordonvale and the Far North region are well positioned to benefit from this expected growth.”
With the self-contained RV tourism market estimated to be worth more than $2.5 billion annually, Gordonvale is now well-positioned to access this lucrative tourism market.
