Vintage vans back at Leisurefest

Vintage vans will be back in fashion at this year’s Melbourne Leisurefest, with enthusiasts Doug and Vicki Barratt set to return to the annual event with another display from their impressive collection of classic caravans.

This year’s eye-catching display of restored retro models will include a curvaceous 1960s Jennison Pathfinder, a 1940s teardrop van towed by a matching 1971 VW Beetle, a 1960s Panorma van towed by an EJ Holden Station Wagon and a 1957 Phoenix towed by a 1972 Chrysler Valiant.

It's the third year in a row that the annual Melbourne Leisurefest will have a display of vintage vans, which are now a common sight at caravan shows across the country.

Visitors to this year's Melbourne Leisurefest, to be held at the Sandown Racecourse from October 4-7, will also be able to experience a real-world demonstration of caravan electronic stability control as part of the AL-KO Live Demos, where a caravan will be towed through a swerve and recovery test down the main straight of Sandown Raceway.

Visitors will also be able to take part in a Race Track Driving Experience, and experience first-hand the driving capabilities of a number of different motorhomes and caravans, or ride along with precision driving experts on the 4x4 Track.

The free seminars will include Dr Katrina Warren talking about travelling with pets and fishing tips from Merv Hughes, while the kids will get the chance to pat some scaly creatures at the Reptile Awareness Display.

Among the 200-plus exhibitors will be some of the biggest names in the Australian RV industry, including Jayco, which is likely to have on display its latest entry-level tent trailer.

2018 Melbourne Leisurefest
Location: Sandown Racecourse, Springvale, Victoria
Dates: October 4-7
Opening hours: 9.30am-5pm (4pm Sunday)
Prices: Adults $16, Concession $13
Parking: Free
Website: MelbourneLeisurefest