New boss of Caravanning Queensland

It’s the end of an era with long-time Caravanning Queensland boss Ron Chapman stepping down as CEO of the peak industry body after more than 25 years in the top job.

Caravanning Queensland General Manager Jason Plant will take over the reins as CEO from January 1, with Chapman continuing to work in a part-time role at the 55-year-old state association.

“Ron will continue to be involved with the Association in a part-time role as Special Advisor in many facets but particularly concentrating on chronicling the Association’s and the Industry’s history,” Plant said.

“I am looking forward to this new chapter for Caravanning Queensland with 2020 proving to be another big year for the Association including the continuation of our second annual Sunshine Coast Show together with the three existing events, more Safety Checks and educational initiatives for both the industry and members of the public," the new CEO said.

Chapman's career in the Australian RV industry has spanned more than 50 years, and included early stints in marketing and PR for different caravan manufacturers, before running dealerships and caravan parks, and being a director of an advertising business.

As well as a quarter-century long stint as CEO of Caravanning Queensland, Chapman was manager of the Queensland Caravan and Camping Show for 36 years.

He’s also been a recipient of various industry awards over the years, including a Eric Hayman Award for Excellence and Richard Davis Award for Outstanding Contribution from the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, as well as the recipient of a prestigious Australia Day medal earlier this year.

Other accolades include Queensland Tourism’s The Marie Watson-Blake Award for Services to Tourism and a Paul Harris Fellow from Rotary International.

Chapman has also been an outspoken advocate for the caravanning lifestyle, criticising ‘caravan bashing’ and supporting a number of consumer initiatives including Caravanning Queensland’s pioneering free RV inspection program and the high-profile world record LEGO caravan.

Chapman's semi-retirement plans were announced at Caravanning Queensland's 2019 Industry Awards night, which among other awards announced saw Aussie Traveller owner Mike Freney given Lifetime membership after 14 years service as treasurer of the Association.