Industry-built van helps homeless

Six of the biggest names in the Victorian caravan industry have banded together to build a luxury family caravan to help raise money for disadvantaged youth.

Proceeds from the raffle of the one-off ‘United Haven’ caravan, jointly built by Melbourne manufacturers and Caravan Industry Association Victoria members Royal Flair, Elite, Nova, Van Cruiser, Crusader and G&S Chassis, will go to the Kids Under Cover charity.

Valued at $78,990, the 23ft tandem axle, touring caravan blends traditional timber/aluminium construction with the latest interior decor, and a spacious layout designed to easily accommodate a family of five.

Among its many features are a fully-equipped kitchen, large L-shaped lounge/dinette, separate shower and toilet, queen size bed and triple bunks with drop-down TV/DVD players.

The Caravan Industry Association Victoria is hoping to raise more than $100,000 for the construction of two portable housing units. Operating nationally, Kids Under Cover offers a combination of housing, scholarships and mentors for homeless and at-risk young people.

“This is a proud moment when all our members work together to help such a great cause,” said CIAV president, Peter May. "We’re an industry that believes our lifestyle unites families, and keeps them connected with memories. This is one of many ways we like to give back to our community.”

Raffle tickets cost $3 and are available from a number of RV businesses and outlets in Victoria, as well as at major Victorian caravan shows this year. The winner will be drawn at 2pm on October 5 – the final day of the Melbourne Leisurefest show at Sandown Racecourse in Melbourne’s south-east.

For further details visit the

GoMakeSoMememories website.