Western Caravans Homestead Murray 2005 Review

Homestead Murray, the latest from WA dealer Western Caravans, was given the ultimate going-over during a weekend trip to Binningup, near Bunbury, when about 40 members of WA's Sandgropers caravan club inspected the twin-axle unit.

While initially impressed, especially with the $43,900 retail price, they were soon trying to outdo each other by suggesting improvements and changes to what we thought was an excellent product. Some might call it "constructive criticism" and others "nit-picking", but we listened patiently to all the members' comments and realised that they meant well, because caravanning to them is a passionate hobby.

Made by Wes Ridden and his small team in the Perth suburb of Maddington, the full-sized Homestead showed just how far this boutique manufacturer has come in a little over a year. CW tested Western's first offering, a 16ft Pilbara, in February 2004 and Wes has continued with the Australiana theme by naming the Homestead range after our nation's rivers: Blackwood, Frankland, Ashburton, Ord, Murchison and Murray.

We tested a 21ft 6in (6.5m) Murray model, with full-width ensuite across the back. On the road, the towing experience was a little uncomfortable, brought about by the van's 1780kg Tare weight leaning towards the upper limit of our V6 petrol 4WD's capacity and some atrocious weather - it rained all the way to Binningup and strong cross winds pushed us around a fair bit.

The remedy would be a heavy-duty weight-distribution kit with anti-sway bars, which is mandatory for a rig of this size.

Having said that, the trip home (in calm conditions) was quite pleasant and the Homestead trailed behind without fuss, adding only about 25 per cent to our vehicle's fuel consumption.

A four-seater dinette in bold, burgundy upholstery is on the left, with the kitchen on the opposite wall, which features the usual devices and appliances that make life on the road comfortable: plenty of elbow room for preparing meals and a CD/radio for background music are some of these. Towards the front is the sleeping zone with a wardrobe either side of the bed. The van's highlights (many of which were pointed out by our Sandgroper "inspectors") included its roomy layout, queen-sized bed (with superb innerspring mattress), large 150-litre fridge, roomy ensuite and its aforementioned value for money.

Some drawbacks were the low position (shin-height) of the microwave, the too-dark wall panelling and there were more shelves than cupboards.

We suggested installing a hatch over the bed for better ventilation while sleeping and replacing the standard door with a sliding version on the ensuite. While happy to take this advice on board, Wes could argue the merits of each suggestion with authority, having been involved in the caravan and motorhome repair industry for many years before setting up Western Caravans.

He said the cherrywood panelling may darken the interior somewhat, but it would be perfect if used for trips to Australia's north, where infamous red dirt gets into everything. Lighter decor is available and Wes is happy to customise the van to satisfy buyers' particular needs.

My wife Denise was particularly taken by the ensuite: toilet on the left, vanity in the centre and shower to the right.

"It was an absolute luxury," she said, "and it was at the opposite end to the bed, so night visits are less likely to disturb your partner".

We also found the ensuite useful for the daytime storage of bags and shoes, which usually get thrown around and make the place look untidy.

The Homestead has a nice profile, with the front roofline dipping for better aerodynamics. The full-height ceiling made it easy to pop in and make lunch while on the road and Wes has opted for chromed alloy wheels, which add a touch of individuality to the twin-axle unit.

There are two 9kg gas bottles for cooking and to fire the hot-water system, fed by two 82 litre tanks, and the boot has been wired for an auxillary battery.

While the chassis was a sturdy 150mm deep, the Sandgropers regretted that it wasn't galvanised; also the right-hand awning arm was too close to the entry door, which made it hard to click in the wire latch to hold the door open.

The bottom line
The Homestead Murray is a credit to Wes and his staff. It has the hand-built quality that comes with a small manufacturer - the cupboards in particular are fitted in a craftsman-like manner.

The unit can be personalised to suit most tastes and would provide comfortable accommodation for a couple travelling around Australia or sitting tight at their favourite holiday destination.

Western products are retailed by Access Caravans in the northern Perth suburb of Wangara. Access Caravans & 4x4 is located at Buckingham Drive, Wangara, WA, (08) 9409 7500.

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