First Goldstream full composite van a hit with buyers

Goldstream RV's recent move into full composite construction is proving a hit with buyers, after the long-standing Pakenham, Victoria-based manufacturer displayed its first 'timber free' CPX off-road pop-top at the Melbourne Leisurefest show in early October.

The 31-year old camper trailer and caravan builder already has a few orders for its new CPX sandwich panel construction option, which is available on all of its timber-framed pop-top and hardtop caravan models and adds around $9000 to the overall price.

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According to the Goldstream RV website, the CPX option package includes the use of 35mm thick fibreglass sandwich panels for the walls and roof, along with a new 17mm honeycomb floor.

Goldstream RV sales manager Mitch Damyon said the pre-cut fibreglass panels including PVC furniture- fastening strengtheners, are sourced from Melbourne's Creative Composites. A heavy-duty Line-X protective coating is applied to lower exterior body sections, as well as the new aluminium corner moulds and special CPX cut-outs.

The Duragal chassis on Goldstream's first CPX prototype also has a Line-X protective coating, although Damyon said the structurally engineered CPX chassis on all future production versions will get a hot dipped galvanising treatment instead.

"More and more buyers are asking for the timberless (full composite) construction; I think the market is heading in that direction so that's why we now offer a choice," he said.

The 1860 Panther CPX prototype with couple's ensuite layout is on display at Goldstream's Victorian HQ and with an advertised price of $125,990 driveaway, comes loaded up with features including an airbag lifter for the pop-top roof, Cruisemaster XT Stage 3 airbag suspension, deluxe upholstery, diesel heater, and an upgraded 300Ah lithium battery system with 3000W inverter.

Currently rolling down the Goldstream production line is the first CPX hardtop caravan, a 17ft 6in single axle off-roader, that's set to get a shake-down run over the Christmas break.

Goldstream is planning a major launch of the new CPX package at the 2025 Victorian Caravan Supershow, where it hopes to have up to six different CPX models on display at the Melbourne Showgrounds from February 19-23.