“WE CAN DO THAT!” SUBURBAN FAMILY’S ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP AROUND OZ
Brisbane’s Farrelly family packed up their troubles in a camper trailer and left the day-to-day worries of
everyday life behind to take the journey of a lifetime – a six month adventure around Australia.
Mum Ann O’Brien, along with her brood (husband Dan Farrelly, 10 year-old Luke, 7 year-old Isaac and 5
year-old Nathan) made the decision to do what most of us only dream about after reading a simple
children’s book.
“We read the children's story book Are We There Yet? by Alison Lester and thought “We could do that!”
Our children are young enough to take out of school for a while and Dan also had lot of long service leave
owing so it just seemed the right thing to do,” Ms O’Brien said.
The journey saw the family explore iconic destinations like Uluru, Kakadu, Ningaloo Reef and countless
sun-drenched coastal towns from the comfort of their reliable camper trailer, staying in family friendly
caravan parks along the way.
The disability of eldest son Luke, who suffers from cerebral palsy, didn’t stand in the way of making this
epic journey – in fact, Luke and his brothers “all had a ball.”
Said Ms O’Brien: “Luke is just one of the boys, with some extra needs, and he totally enjoyed the
adventure. He really thrived on the trip and wasn’t sick even once. He especially enjoyed the caravan
parks because of their playgrounds and the chance to meet other kids.”
Staying at Caravan/Holiday parks gave the Farrellys the chance to meet other families and build lasting
friendships. They even spent Christmas in Melbourne with a family they met while they were on the road,
who they continue to stay in touch with.
“Caravan parks are great - there’s a real holiday atmosphere and people are happy to get know each
other and the kids have a ball finding new friends to play with.”
Caravan, RV & Accommodation Industry of Australia Ltd (CRVA) is the peak National Tourism Body representing over 4000
industry businesses ranging from Caravan/Holiday parks, manufacturers and retailers of industry products, suppliers of
goods and services, and service providers.
The Farrellys are not alone in experiencing the benefits of a caravanning/caravan park holiday which has
long been considered an Australian family tradition – although their six month journey is a little longer
than the average.
70% of 35-49 year-olds with children have chosen a Caravan/Holiday park holiday within the last two
years, according to CRVA research, with 84% agreeing that this type of holiday is great for kids and 83%
saying a family caravanning holiday made a great break from the routine.
Ben Yates, CEO of Caravan, RV & Accommodation Industry of Australia (CRVA), said that caravanning
holidays had become increasingly popular as families discovered the lifestyle benefits to be had for the
whole family.
“Besides the affordability and accessibility of this type of holiday, families especially enjoy coming
together at Caravan and Holiday Parks for the feeling of camaraderie that you don’t get at hotels or
motels which really makes a holiday truly memorable,” said Mr Yates.
For families planning a journey like the Farrelly family, here are Ann’s Top 10 Tips for travelling with
children:
1. Involve children in the planning - this helps them to look forward to the adventure;
2. Show them maps and the route you plan to take and talk about the places you will go;
3. Plan to visit places that you know will interest your child. For example, Richmond in Central
Queensland is a great place for lovers of dinosaurs.
4. Provide plenty of opportunities for the children to play and relax at parks, playgrounds and pools;
5. Source travel books that include information specifically about activities for children;
6. Be prepared that some attractions are not suitable for very young children – do your research
before you go;
7. Make sure to book into Caravan/Holiday parks that provide activities for children like a playground
or a swimming pool;
8. Be flexible with your itinerary; changes may be necessary along the way to cater for the needs of
your family;
9. Make sure you have a supply of easily prepared meals, for example: pasta packs or tinned baked
beans for the nights when you may arrive late at a Caravan/Holiday park. There is nothing worse
than tired kids waiting for a meal;
10. When the going gets tough remember all the good times you have had and the good times ahead
and just have fun!
