Adventurers Diary
Motorhomes or Caravans which is Better
Motorhomes vs Caravans! This is a discussion we hear so often, so what’s better, Caravans or Motorhomes?
This question is messaged to us a lot.
We read about it online all the time and it’s a constant in discussions around the campfire and at Happy Hour all across the country.
I even went and watched my mates in my old cricket team play yesterday and one of them brought up the subject.
Which is fine except it rarely involves the Facts!!
In most cases those who own Caravans argue why they are better while Motorhome owners inherently argue why theirs is better.
Table of Contents
Neither Motorhomes or Caravans are perfect
The truth is, neither is better than the other.
Each one has benefits the other one doesn’t have.
Now of course there’s numerous other options too including Fifth Wheelers, Campervans (whizz bangers), Camper Trailers, Slide Ons, Tents, Swags and more.
But most people travel in Caravans or Motorhomes and these are the two that are almost always discussed in comparisons so I’ll stick with just talking about them today.
It’s at this point I’ll stick up my hand and say I’ve never owned a Caravan. I’ve towed trailers and boats and all sorts of things but never a Caravan. Personally I’d be happy if I never did but the reality is it’s probably inevitable that one day we will.
Our choice of weapon for our almost 4 years so far around Australia is a Motorhome. We met, traveled with and spent so much time with others who tow Caravans.
We saw their processes, watched them as we followed up the highways and of course discussed their caravans in length over many dampers and a Rum or three around a fire at night.
I think I’ve got something of a grasp on towing a Caravan however admittedly not the experience.
Our decision not to tow
We decided from the beginning not to tow. We thought if we needed a vehicle we would use a Taxi or hire a car. On a couple of occasions, we did use Taxi’s but never ended up hiring a vehicle.
We’ve heard others say the same thing, we’ll just hire a car, but that didn’t happen for us and it really isn’t a solution either.
We chose not to tow because we thought the size of our 8m Motorhome was already big enough to deal with and we didn’t want the extra cost of maintaining another vehicle.
But let’s be honest, most travelers traverse the country by Caravan which has to suggest for most people it is the preferred method.
Read about our: 47 Caravan Motorhome RV & Camping Accessories
If we were starting over again and I knew then what I know now, I’d have still chosen a Motorhome but I would have taken a trailer and a decent 4WD.
We were complete rookies though and we are very happy with the decisions we made, they were the right choices for us at that time.
5 Essentials – 4WD Accessories
- 4WD Recovery Tracks will get you out of most situations, especially in sand. We bought a pair of these generic branded tracks that have worked well whilst other brands include the Australian made TRED or the Australian Designed and made MAXTRAX 4wd Recovery Tracks.
- For our 4WD we went with this EDECOA 1500 3000w Pure Sine Wave Inverter which has been excellent value and works great.
- I’m a massive fan of my Victron IP65 15a Battery Charger. I use it often to give batteries a boost and it really is an essential part of my tool kit.
- When camping my Kings 200w Solar Blanket gets a lot of use and works really well. Only downside is it doesn’t work with Lithium batteries.
- Brass Tyre Deflators are a fast and easy way to lower your tyre pressure to your desired level. Perfect for when you are hitting the beach.
The Motorhomes vs Caravans Debate
Let’s look at the argument, Caravans vs Motorhomes.
The 2 favourite lines by Caravan owners are:
With a Caravan you can unhook and use your car!!
This is true and it is the greatest benefit of Caravans vs Motorhomes. It can be counter claimed by Motorhome owners that they too can tow a vehicle.
This is a fair argument however it does have limitations. Towed vehicles are almost always a Suzuki which are the most suitable to be flat towed.
Some travelers will tow a trailer but weight limits usually see this method also limit the Motorhome to towing a smaller car such as the Suzuki or similar.
The benefit here of the Caravan is the tow vehicle is normally a larger 4WD. With this option you can take a Swag, small tent or similar and leave the Caravan behind for days to go off track and see more places.
Realistically it simply opens more doors to see more places.
There’s also beach camping such as 80 Mile Beach and Warroora Station in WA, some amazing places along the beaches at the bottom of WA, Gibb River Rd, Carmila Beach in Qld, Cape York, Tomato Island and Roper Bar, Gunlom Falls in the NT and no doubt the list goes on and on of great places a 4WD and Caravan can go that a Motorhome can’t or shouldn’t.
This is without doubt the greatest benefit of a Caravan over a Motorhome!!
Check out our video of how we almost got bogged in the motorhome!
Motorhomes vs Caravans – the facts
So lets look at the Facts:
Common statement: In a Motorhome you have to pack up everything to go to the shops to buy Bread or Milk!!
Despite what too many people proclaim, you never have to “pack everything up” to go down the shop to get milk and bread. NEVER HAPPENS!!
Never, Ever, Ever!!
When you arrive in town in a Motorhome if you need groceries you go get them. If not, you are either towing a vehicle or, if like us you only have the Motorhome, then you are going out most days anyway.
We don’t set up like you do in a Caravan. We don’t put out an annexe, actually we often didn’t even put out the awning. No awning mats, no ropes, no permanent structure.
It takes little more than 5 mins to put a few bits of cutlery away, bring in the slide-out, take down our privacy curtain on our front window, unplug the power if on a powered site and be driving away.
It’s simple and easy and not once did we ever have to do that because we needed to go around to the shop for milk. Lets debunk that myth now forever.
Shops are often walking distance anyway but again, it was never an issue and I don’t remember ever needing to walk to the shops to buy something we needed.
Motorhome Benefits
Motorhomes don’t roll over.
Ok sure, it’s possible, but it’s so rare it’s reasonable to say it never happens. Stories of Caravans rolling over however seem to be a daily occurrence.
It’s so common there’s enormous debate about whether Caravan owners should have a special license and we are now seeing weigh stations popping up around the country to police it.
This was a major factor for us deciding to choose a Motorhome.
Read about: Buying our Motorhome
In a Motorhome we can stay places you can’t in a Caravan
We stealth camp!!
There I’ve said it. We keep it a secret because we know there’s always going to be those that want to tell everyone else how they should live their life and how there’s rules against it blah blah.
The very politicians who make our rules break rules themselves every day of the week. Much much bigger rules that have far greater impact than us pulling up somewhere for the night.
Anyway, I digress 🙂
We can park places you couldn’t get away with in a Caravan. Hotel carparks, Shopping Centre carparks, Sportsgrounds, general parks and boat ramps. We’ve stayed in them all and more and whilst some Caravan owners might too, it’s much easier to do in a Motorhome and get away with it.
(I just know I’m going to regret disclosing this… )
It’s cheaper in a Motorhome
With our Kitchen with us everywhere we went, we never ate out. Our food, drinks and cooking equipment were always on hand saving us heaps.
We also liked never needing to find public toilets let alone having to use one. Our bathroom was always with us.
If we pulled up somewhere and thought let’s go for a swim or get out the fishing rods, our gear was always there.
We also never found ourselves annoyed because we left the camera behind.
Our Motorhome has 6 tyres, 2 less than many 4wd and caravan setups.
1 vehicle to maintain unless you choose to tow.
No hitching and unhitching. As you get older for many it becomes a chore.
Motorhomes rarely get stolen. Caravans are a definite target for lowlife thieves.
Read more: Who to Choose for Caravan and Motorhome Insurance
Caravan Benefits
You can go more places. As discussed previously, the 4WD opens up so many more places a Motorhome just doesn’t often allow you.
More space. The 4WD gives you the whole tray and with a rooftop rack you can get a lot more up there too. We looked at Caravans recently at the Brisbane Camping Show and they don’t seem to have the external storage we do with our Motorhome though.
Having your base. It’s great that you can park the Caravan and know you have that base to come back to in the afternoon that’s all set up and you can just walk in and relax.
It only takes us 10 minutes in the Motorhome but sometimes after a long day it would be great to just turn off the ignition and reach for the esky for a cold beverage.
The 4WD is perfect for carrying firewood. We didn’t have anywhere external for that and the one time we decided to get some firewood and we put it inside the Motorhome, we ended up with white ants inside. Never again!!
Lots of people do have external setups in their Motorhome for firewood but it’s so much simpler and easier with a 4WD.
Securing your Campsite
Knowing your Campsite is secure when you leave for the day. In our almost 4 years we never once came back to find someone had taken our spot. We always left our table and chairs out and all was fine when we returned.
We did often comment, I wonder if our stuff is still there or wonder if someone has taken our spot. It never happened but it was something that would briefly be on your mind as we drove back.
Not such an issue with a Caravan, you just hope the Van is still there I guess lol
The fuel economy from my experiences reading and talking to both Caravan and Motorhome owners is they are pretty similar. As mentioned though, we weren’t towing a vehicle.
Smaller Motorhomes than ours and those without the overhead cabin that we have would achieve better fuel economy and probably be more fuel efficient than most 4wd and Caravan setups.
We now do own a 4WD, having bought a Triton recently.
So far we have used the 4WD for trips to Fraser Island and Moreton Island so no major trips where we have had to decide how we incorporate both vehicles but that time will come very soon.
There it is, my thoughts on the real differences between Caravans vs Motorhomes. Sure, there are other factors but I think these are the major differences.
What are your thoughts regarding Motorhomes vs Caravans?
If you’re considering which way to go for your Big Lap of Oz, hopefully we’ve given you some valid points to consider.
Most importantly, it doesn’t matter how you do it, just do it and enjoy the adventure 🙂
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
Readers who enjoyed this also enjoy reading:
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Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps. We have sourced this one which is approx $500 less than we paid for ours.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.to/2XQYnsk – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Lenses – Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO This is my all round, every day use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Where to Find Us
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Adventurers Diary
Mataranka, What to do and where to stay
Mataranka is a small town in Northern Territory and the Capital of the Never Never, just 431 kms south-east of Darwin.
Coming from the south on your road trip, you’ve probably just enjoyed a fantastic Barra Burger and a beer at Daly Waters Pub less than 2 hours drive away.
The Stuart Highway has now brought you here to Mataranka and if you’ve seen the photos from other travellers you’ll know why this is a must stop destination.
This is a great place to pull up stumps for a few nights after some long days driving and just relax and enjoy the Australian outback.
Table of Contents
About Mataranka
Mataranka to Darwin is still a 4 and a half hour drive away yet, with many great sight still to see along the way.
Katherine is just up the road and only 115 kms, just over an hour’s drive between the two towns.
The population of Mataranka is approximately 350 people but thousands of tourists arrive in town during the winter dry season.
The region has a strong Indigenous history and you can witness Aboriginal Art at the Stockyard Gallery’s exhibit and visit the Never Never Museum to learn more about their local stories.
Mataranka Weather
The weather in Mataranka is consistently warm during the day and the best months to visit are April to September during the dry season.
Our first stay was in July and our other two stays have both been in the month of May.
Apart from the winter months, the average temperatures for the most part of the year range between 19.7°C to 37.9°C with the hottest month on average being October.
July is the coldest month with an average maximum of 30.5°C and the minimum temperature down around 13.6°C.
The area is generally very dry in the winter months but during the wet season roads may be cut off for long periods.
Things to do in Mataranka
Bitter Springs
One of the most popular attractions in Mataranka is Bitter Springs.
An amazing 30.5 million litres of water rises from underground and it is heaps of fun to float down with the gentle flow of water.
You will find the water temperature sits at around 34°C all year round but the springs are generally closed from November to May due to flooding in the wet season.
This amazing crystal clear naturally fed spring is lined with paperbarks and cabbage palms.
There is now a paved pathway from the car park to this ever popular swimming hole.
The entry and exit points from the springs is via a small set of stairs with a handrail.
Bitter Springs is located in the Elsey National Park and is just 2 kms from the township of Mataranka.
Simply turn off the Stuart Highway into Martin Road.
Just 500 metres past Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping you will arrive at the Bitter Springs car park.
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Mataranka Thermal Pools
The Mataranka Thermal Pools are just one of the two natural thermal pools in the Elsey National Park.
These paperbark, palm fringed Mataranka Hot Springs offer a safe place for swimming in crystal clear waters that are consistently warm all year round.
Easily accessible from within the Mataranka Homestead and just a short walk from the car park.
Anyone can visit the Hot Springs by walking through the Mataranka Homestead, easy free parking is available at the front.
Giant Termite Mound
Right in the heart of Mataranka is a giant termite mound. It is the world’s largest man-made termite mound.
There are over 2000 species of termites and nearly 90 can be found within the Northern Territory.
Termite mounds are a very common sight in The Top End as their homes dominate the landscape.
Territory Manor Barramundi Feeding
Territory Manor is a local Motel and Caravan Park which is both family and pet friendly.
You can stop and stay or drop in for lunch any day.
Twice a day, the Territory Manor feed the Barramundi in the dam beside their licensed restaurant.
If you want to brave it, you can even take part in the barra feeding. The Barra have a very explosive action when being fed which is amazing to witness close up.
Admission to the barra feeding at the Territory Manor is free but a gold coin donation is appreciated.
Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs
A visit to Mataranka is not complete without catching Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs in action at the Mataranka Homestead.
Nathan is an extremely talented whip cracker and holds five Guiness World records.
One of his World records being for the most times a whip can be cracked in a minute.
Unbelievably Nathan can crack a whip 697 times in just one minute.
Nathan has been cracking whips since he 14 and performs regularly in Mataranka from May to August and in other towns around the country throughout other months of the year.
Admission is free to the Mataranka Homestead to see Nathan perform live and he simply relies on people making a donation or purchasing a whip and other merchandise after the show.
Mataranka Falls
The hike to the Mataranka Falls is an 8 km return walk from 12 Mile Yards.
The track is well marked with blue arrows and is mostly flat with a hard surface but some patches are sandy.
There are some scenic view points as it follows the Roper River along the way to the falls.
If you are expecting a high plunging waterfall you will be disappointed.
The Mataranka Falls consist of small cascade of less than a metre in height.
Note there is definitely no swimming at Mataranka Falls or in the river as salt water crocs inhabit these waters.
Read more about Darwin & the Top End: Things to do in Darwin, NT
5 Essentials – Ryobi Tools for Traveling
- A chainsaw certainly is an essential tool while traveling especially when camping and 4WDing. Perfect for cutting up wood for the campfire and ideal for clearing tracks of fallen branches when 4WDing. I really like the Ryobi Chainsaw and will be looking to buy one very soon to match all of my other Ryobi tools.
- The Ryobi Cordless Hand Vacuum has been super handy for the motorhome while traveling and now it is also great to use in our 4WD.
- Even prior to traveling, I have always used a Ryobi Cordless Drill. They are an essential tool for use at home and while on the road.
- We have had heaps of use from our Ryobi 18v Area Light. It’s great for fishing, camping and outdoor entertaining and even when we want to save power at night while free camping. Just charge it up the next day when you have solar.
- There are so many uses for our Ryobi Blower while traveling. Blowing the leaves off the top of the slideout before bringing it in, accelerating the campfire, clearing away any dirt, grass or sand from around your campsite.
Mataranka Accommodation
Mataranka caters for all travellers with a wide variety of accommodation to choose from.
There’s bush camping, motel rooms, cabins as well as powered and unpowered caravan park sites.
Between the Homestead, Caravan Parks and Motels the area has you covered for whatever accommodation you require during your stay.
Little Roper Stockcamp
Enjoy an incredible and unique outback experience at the Little Roper Stockcamp.
Every morning at 8am except Sundays, owner Des boils the billy and cooks up little johnny cakes.
It is great gathering around with fellow travellers for a chat over a free cup of tea while enjoying a couple of johnny cakes for just $2 each.
After morning smoko, stick around as at 9am Des brings out the resident snakes and lizards for kids big and small to get up close and personal with.
The Communal Fire is lit every afternoon at 5pm and offers another great gathering point at the Little Roper Stockcamp.
Cook dinner over the fire in your camp oven or you are welcome to use one of the camp ovens provided.
There are rustic showers and toilets, washing machines and water but it is bore water.
A number of friendly farm animals on-site are also a great way to keep the kids entertained.
Contact Details for the Little Roper Stockcamp:
Phone: 0427 880 819
Address: 547 Homestead Road Mataranka NT
Website:
Read everything to know here: Little Roper Stockcamp
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Bitter Springs Cabins & Camping
Located just 3kms from the Mataranka township the Bitter Springs Cabins & Camping is also just a short walk to the magnificent Bitter Springs.
Right on the banks of the Little Roper River, it not only provides an informal camping area in a relaxed natural bush setting, it is also an awesome spot to go barra fishing.
The spacious Campground has powered sites with bore water on tap where you can choose your own site and you can stay unhitched if you wish.
Facilities include toilets, showers, a camp kitchen and laundry.
An on-site kiosk stocks bread, milk and ice and be sure to try their frozen fresh locally grown mango!
Unpowered sites are available alongside the bank of the river.
Campfires are allowed in the unpowered campground but not in the main powered camping area.
Pets are welcome and we were able to stay with our beautiful Golden Retriever MACKS.
Generators are not permitted.
Contact Details for Bitter Springs Cabins & Camping:
Phone: 08 8975 4838
Address: 255 Martin Road, Bitter Springs, Mataranka, Northern Territory
Website:
Read more: Bitter Springs Cabins & Camping
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Mataranka Homestead
The Mataranka Homestead is home to the We of the Never Never Homestead and the Mataranka Thermal Pools.
A large camping area is available with both powered and unpowered sites as well as cabins and motel style accommodation.
Facilities at the Mataranka Homestead include a pool, bar and restaurant plus a store which stocks bread, milk, souvenirs and basic clothing and fishing supplies.
There are three amenities blocks and two laundries throughout the grounds.
Pets are permitted but restricted to Campground One only due to the fact that the homestead is located in National Park.
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in the campground. Pets are not permitted in the Elsey National Park.
There are no on-line bookings available, it is simply a first in best dressed basis or you can call them on (08) 8975 4544.
Be sure to witness Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs in action at the Mataranka Homestead.
He performs every night except Monday nights from May through to August.
Contact Details for the Mataranka Homestead:
Phone: 08 8975 4544
Address: 642 Homestead Road, Mataranka, Northern Territory
Website:
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Territory Manor Motel & Caravan Park
Just 500 metres from the heart of Mataranka township is the Territory Manor Motel & Caravan Park.
Powered Sites, Family Rooms and Double Share Motel Rooms are the accommodation options on offer.
Facilities include a swimming pool, spa, a huge camp kitchen, barbecue and laundry.
There is also an outdoor undercover licensed restaurant which is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
The old buggy from the ‘We of the Never Never’ movie features in the restaurant as a buffet bench.
One of the other features of the Territory Manor is the Barra Feeding and the camping area is pet friendly.
Contact Details for Territory Manor Motel & Caravan Park:
Phone: 08 8975 4516 or 08 8975 4612
Address: 51 Martin Road, Mataranka, Northern Territory
Website:
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Jalmurark Campground
Located in the Elsey National Park, the Jalmurark Campground offers a large camping area with unpowered sites providing 2WD access for caravans, motorhomes and tent camping.
Facilities at the Jalmurark Camping Ground include toilets, showers and barbecues.
There are no bins so you need to take your rubbish with you.
The use of generators not permitted. Pets not allowed in the National Park.
Fires allowed in the designated fire pits only. Collection of firewood from the sides of the main roads is permissable.
You must be at least 50 metres away from the water when washing with soaps or detergents.
Bookings are to be made prior to your arrival. Book on-line through the Northern Territory Parks Booking System.
Contact Details for the Jalmurark Campground:
Phone: 08 8975 4560
Address: John Hauser Drive, Elsey, Northern Territory
Website:
Mataranka Fuel Stations
There are actually 3 fuel stations in the small town of Mataranka.
Ampol Fuel is at the Mataranka Store & Service Station plus there’s the Mataranka United Service Station and the BP Mataranka Roadhouse.
All three are located within metres of each other in the main street of Mataranka.
On the three occasions that we have visited Mataranka over the last few years we have found diesel prices at the United and BP are slightly cheaper than at the Ampol.
There is however a 5c Fuel Discount Offer for Mataranka Central when you stay at the Mataranka Homestead.
We always use Petrol Spy app to find the cheapest fuel prices for any location throughout Australia.
Read more: How to Save Money on Fuel
Take your time and experience everything to see and do in Mataranka.
It is a genuinely interesting and fascinating Australian outback town with many features and intriguing things to experience.
Other places to stay in the region:
- Riverview Tourist Village, Katherine
- Florence Falls Campground, Litchfield National Park
- Mary River Wilderness Retreat
- Kakadu Lodge and Caravan Park, Jabiru
- Daly Waters Pub Caravan Park
Pin – Mataranka
Have you visited or spent some time exploring Mataranka?
Tell us about your experience in Mataranka.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
_________________________________________________________________________
Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO – This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Follow us, Subscribe, Like, Share, and Comment on our website and social media here:-
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This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through a link on this page we may receive a small commission. It will not cost you any more, in fact we’ve sourced out some great deals for you. Thank you for supporting us.
Adventurers Diary
The Story of John, The Highway Man
At just 23 years of age, John The Highway Man as he is now known, took leave from his bank job of 5 years and went for a walk.
His intention was to go for 3 months, just to wander and feel free.
John never went back.
He was missing for 25 years.
Table of Contents
This is the story of John The Highway Man
While travelling Australia and traversing the long highways all around our vast country you really do see and meet some amazing, interesting and quirky people.
Way out in the middle of absolutely nowhere you see people riding bicycles, unicycles, postie bikes, riding tractors, in cars so old they out date some of us and making their way from A to B by extraordinary means.
But this is a story of a man who has chosen a completely different mode of transport, his legs.
He’s been using them to walk the country’s roads now for over 40 years.
It really is a fascinating story of a man who found peace and solitude walking the highways of Australia.
In his words ” I’m just a wanderer”
We met John in NSW and chatted and this is his story.
Who is John the Highway Man?
His real name is Grant John Cadoret.
As Adele and I approached the town of Forbes in regional NSW in our Winnebago Esperance Motorhome we both noticed a fellow on the side of the highway walking north.
We were around 30 kms south from the town when Adele recognised him and said, “that’s John the Highway Man”.
I looked in my mirrors and checked the side of the highway and made sure it was safe for us to pull over.
Fortunately we had no vehicles behind us and space off the side of the road.
So we stopped and had a chat.
About John
John grew up in the Victorian country town of Minyip, just over 300 kms north west of Melbourne.
It was 1977 and at the young age of 23, John decided to take some leave from his good banking job, just to go for a walk.
It was only meant to be for a short time, certainly not for the decades how it has ended up.
Out here as he trod the earth, looked out over farmland, and searching within himself, he found solitude and peace as time went by.
3 months turned into 3 years, then 5, then 10 and before he knew it, he’d been gone a long, long time.
John said to me as we chatted, “when I first started out no-one would give me a ride when I wanted one. Now everyone offers me a ride but I prefer to walk”
Communication in the 1970, 80’s and even early 90’s of dial up was nothing like it is today.
There were no mobile phones, no internet, no Facebook, no Social Media at all.
The way we communicated was very different and much slower.
We did have pay phones and postcards though so his family struggled over the many years not hearing from him and believed he must have died.
John understood he’d been gone a long time and the longer he left it the harder it became to reach out and contact his loved ones.
Ultimately, he chose to let sleeping dogs lay.
His parents, he thought, would likely be dead by now so he continued on his marathon walk along the Australian Highways.
Where did he get money from?
He didn’t have any money, he didn’t need any.
At no time has John stopped to work along the way nor has he received any benefits or Government money.
Without property, without a vehicle and having no material needs he didn’t need money.
How did he survive?
John ate and drank what he would find on the roadsides of the highways.
He would come across food that had been thrown out car windows plus bottles and cans of drink tossed to the sides of the roads.
Along the way the kindness of other people would sometimes provide him food to eat.
Pools of water would otherwise be a source for somewhere to drink.
He became a modern day Swagman and learnt the survival tactics he needed.
During our chat I said to him, you should write a book. His response was “I prefer to read them”.
John stops at libraries and always has a book or two with him.
He does now have a small Kindle pad with him that he charges with a little solar panel you see on top of his backpack as he walks.
I found John to be very humble. He was happy to chat but I needed to lead the way with questions.
People stop and talk to him, some say they’d love to be doing it. John says, it’s always a fine day when they say it.
Finding John the Highway Man
Decades had gone by when a journalist heard about him having gone missing and decided to try to find him.
Amazingly, he did.
He stopped his car and chatted with him on the side of the road, talking about where he had been and listening to his stories.
The journalist went back and told his family, who had long decided he must have died, why else would he have never contacted them after so many years.
His sister broke down in tears and desperately wanted to see him.
John’s mother was at first unsure, not believing it was actually him.
In time her emotions went to anger, mad that he would still be alive and not contacted her.
Understandably there were a huge range of emotions for everyone involved.
The Journalist returned back to find John, once again travelling the Highways, looking for that needle in the haystack of the contented Swagman on his unique journey.
Eventually he found him once again, this time providing John his sisters phone number and told him his family wanted him to contact them.
Reuniting with his Family
It took a little time, some months, before John made the call.
His sister Michelle, a school teacher, was interrupted during class. There’s a phone call they told her, you need to take it.
It was John!!
The family reunited and now John returns regularly to visit.
He discovered that his mother and father had split up over time and his father now lives in Queensland.
Where can you see John?
He doesn’t walk as far any more.
When I asked him if he was heading up to Queensland he said no. “Everything up there wants to kill you” he told me.
Ohhh, you mean snakes, spiders and dingoes I asked.
No he said, “Ants”.
“Any time I sit down they swarm all over me up there.”
He said he doesn’t go past Warwick now.
John told me he walked to Western Australia once in his earlier years but he doesn’t go back now.
Mostly you find him along the Highways of NSW and Victoria or maybe just a little over the border into Queensland.
In his early days, John says the police would pull him up for hitchhiking but now they all know him.
“They would ask me for ID, the problem is I’ve never had a credit card or any form of identification”, John said.
I asked John where he was aiming to get to today.
“I don’t know” he said. “I’ll just keep going until I’ve had enough and then I’ll stop”.
We asked him does he have an idea of where he wants to get to each day, “No” he said.
He has no plan each day, he just meanders along at his own pace in his own space.
Although introverted and quiet, John is friendly and kind also.
John the Highway Man on Social Media
John himself is not on Social Media, he has no idea what it is, just that it’s a thing and how people now know about him.
Today there are several Facebook pages dedicated to the adventures of John the Highway Man.
People watch out for him and post online where is he and how he is doing.
They share their stories of him and what was said when they met.
One page is called The Highway Man: A: Grant Johns journey. The original page.
Another is The Highway Man, Grant Johns Helping Hands.
Please keep in mind John’s safety when sharing information on social media.
Don’t make him a target for thieves or leave him in a vulnerable position to anyone who may take advantage of his lifestyle.
What to do if you see John
Ensure before you apply the brakes on your vehicle that there is no-one close behind you and where you pull over you do it safely, for the sake of you, your family, John and other travellers.
Find somewhere that’s safe to stop to talk and it won’t hinder or be a distraction to others.
John is actually usually quite social, he likes to chat and is often happy talking for as long as you want to.
Remember, he chose this life and has been doing it a long time.
It’s his life and he’s happy so don’t talk with him as if he’s poor or suffering. He is doing exactly what he has chosen to do.
He doesn’t accept lifts so if you offer he’s very unlikely to do so.
John can only carry so much gear so while he appreciates gifts, he may not always be able to take it with him.
He likes coke and people bring him food and water, batteries and new boots or clothing.
I’ve learnt since we met that he likes a Rum too. Wish I knew that at the time and I’d have poured one for us both.
This is an incredible story of a true Aussie character.
A guy who chose to be different. In fact, he has said he knew he was different and just wasn’t fitting in.
Society can be a real challenge for some of us and John found his own space and his own place.
Hopefully we will get to meet him again.
Pin – John the Highway Man
Have you ever spotted John the Highway Man walking down the highway and stopped to have a chat?
Tell us if you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting John.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung s21 Ultra Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this is an insane camera within a phone. The S21 Ultra comes with up to 100 times zoom and high quality camera. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at for travelling.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
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Adventurers Diary
Things to do in Ilfracombe Qld
For a small outback Queensland town, there are quite a number of fun, interesting things to do in Ilfracombe.
Named after the small Devonshire town in England, Ilfracombe was founded in 1891 and was once the transport hub for the Wellshot Station, the largest sheep station in Australia.
Back in the early days, Ilfracombe had three hotels each with accommodation and their own dance hall.
It also had two general stores, a couple of butchers, a baker, a saddler, dressmaker as well as a billiard saloon, a coach builder and a soft drink maker.
Now, the once thriving population has dwindled to between 200 and 300.
Located between Barcaldine and Longreach, Ilfracombe is known as the Hub of the West as their welcome sign suggests!
It’s just a 20 minute drive or just 27.2 kms from Ilfracombe to Longreach.
By road it is 80.9 kms from Barcaldine to Ilfracombe and around 52 minutes to drive between these two towns.
Naturally it is hard to compete with major attractions of Longreach but Ilfracombe provides a great outback atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle.
A quiet little town where you can enjoy peace and tranquility and a great base from which you can explore the entire region.
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Table of Contents
Top Things to do in Ilfracombe
Here are 8 great things to do in Ilfracombe most of which are located right in the heart of town:
1. Take a walk down Machinery Mile
An easy way to get some exercise in Ilfracombe is to take a walk down Machinery Mile and back and you will clock up over 3 kms.
You will be amazed at some of the old machinery that makes up Machinery Mile, most of which has been collected from within a 100 metre radius to Ilfracombe.
This incredible timeline of tractors, dozers, trucks, carts, tanks and much more stretches out for a mile of the main street in Ilfracombe.
A couple of them are very rare and are one or two of the their kind left in the world.
Machinery Mile is free of charge however donations are gratefully accepted via the donation box to help maintain the machinery.
2. Drop into the Wellshot Hotel
Be sure to drop into the Wellshot Hotel for a drink or two and sit your bum down on their quirky bar stools.
You simply can’t miss having a photo on these iconic stools at this iconic pub!
Stay for lunch or dinner and take the time to learn about the history of the hats, enjoy the rustic charm and quirky features that this outback pub has to offer.
Try your luck and see if you can successfully pin a $5 note to the roof of the bar.
Read more: Wellshot Hotel
3. Bathe in the Ilfracombe Artesian Spa and Swimming Pool
Take a therapeutic dip in the Ilfracombe Artesian Spa and Swimming Pool.
Feel the benefits of the warm therapeutic mineral waters. It is great to soak your weary muscles when you stop after a long day driving.
The waters of the Ilfracombe Artesian Spa are from the Great Artesian Basin which is one of the world’s largest artesian groundwater basins.
The Great Artesian Basin underlies one-fifth of Australia and extends beneath regions of Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Northern Territory.
It stretches from the Great Dividing Range all of the way to the Lake Eyre depression.
Standard Daily Opening Hours for the Ilfracombe Artesian Spa and Pool are 3.30pm to 6.30pm.
4. Visit Langenbaker House
The Langenbaker House is one of the first houses in Ilfracombe.
Since the 1890’s it belonged to Harry & Mary-Anne Langenbaker and remained in their family for just over 100 years.
It was acquired by the Ilfracombe Shire Council in 1991 after the last Langenbaker family member passed away.
This humble home has been preserved and is open to the public for guided tours.
It stands as a memorial to the Australia Outback Town’s people illustrating their way of life.
Inside the house it still largely resembles what it was like while the Langenbakers were raising their 11 children.
One of their sons became blind in an accident in 1921 therefore the furniture was left in exactly the same place so he could find his way around.
5. Pop into the Ilfracombe Post Office
The beautiful old tongue and groove building is home to not only Australia Post but also the Ilfracombe Library, a Gift Shop and a Second Hand Clothing store.
In 2010, the Ilfracombe Post Office celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the first motor mail delivery in the Commonwealth of Australia which went from Ilfracombe to Isisford.
6. Look through the Wellshot Centre
Learn about the early beginnings of the Wellshot Station.
The Wellshot Centre is an interesting place to visit as it outlines the history of the one of Australia’s greatest sheep stations.
The Wellshot Centre is also the Ilfracombe Visitor Information Centre.
Wellshot Station holds the world record for shearing the largest number of sheep off the same property in one season back in 1892.
Another record in the shire was the record for moving 43,000 sheep, the largest mob of sheep as a single flock in 1886.
7. Check out the Romani Hall Memorial – Gun Museum
The Romani Hall Memorial contains glass cabinets full of machine guns and weapons.
There are bombs, pistols, rifles, grenades and lots more.
All of the items in the museum relate to the war with the museum dedicated to Australia’s Light Horsemen.
It is a tribute to the young men in the Ilfracombe district who enlisted in the armed forces.
8. The Twelve Mile
Just 20 kms out from Ilfracombe towards Isisford is The Twelve Mile.
To find The Twelve Mile, go past Stockyard Creek and it will be on your left.
Then turn at the Twelve Mile sign before driving another 100 metres to behind the dam.
Before heading out, pick up a map from the Wellshot Information Centre.
The self-guided map will assist you to explore this incredible formation.
Great Things to do in the Ilfracombe nearby region
There are more great things to do in the Infracombe surrounding region in towns like Barcaldine, Patrick, Aramac and Longreach.
Be sure to check out these other great attractions while you are close by.
Barcaldine
Tree of Knowledge
Barcaldine is just under 81kms from Ilfracombe and is most famous for the Tree of Knowledge.
The ghost gum is located in front of the Barcaldine Railway Station and it was under this tree that the 1891 Shearer’s Strike workers met.
The Tree of Knowledge was the site of the reading of the manifesto in 1892 leading to the formation of the Labour Party in Queensland.
Sadly this very notable tree which had been added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992 was poisoned in 2006.
Visit the Tree of Knowledge especially at night to see it beautifully illuminated with evolving coloured lights.
Great Shearers Strike
A tremendous and temultuous event in Queensland’s history was the Great Shearers Strike back in 1891.
At the time, Australia was going into its worst ever depression and unemployment was rife.
The price of wool had fallen and shearing was one of the most demanding but lowest paid jobs.
1,000 shearers put down their shears and marched through the streets of Barcaldine until their demands were met.
The demands were for the continuation of existing rates of pay; protection of worker’s rights and privileges; just and equitable agreements and the exclusion of low-cost Chinese labour.
The strike marked as the beginning of the working man’s voice lasted 4 months and 13 strike leaders were arrested and actually sentenced to 3 years hard labour.
Patrick
Lara Wetlands
When visiting nearby Barcaldine, be sure to head out to Lara Wetlands and camp up beside the lake for a few days.
It is a birdlover’s and photographer’s paradise.
Soak up the warmth in the natural hot spring pool, cook up a feast on a campfire, witness sensational sunsets and sunrises, paddle the lake in one of the complimentary kayaks.
Another option is you can use some old fashioned pedal power to explore the lake perimetre on the complimentary bicycles.
Read more about: Lara Wetlands
Aramac
The Aramac Sculpture Trail
Aramac is around 45 minutes from Barcaldine and is the where you can start the Aramac/Lake Dunn Sculpure Trail.
Miluynda Rogers, a local sculptor has created over 40 sculptures.
This unique art installation has Miluynda’s creations dotted around a 200km loop circuit.
It is one of the biggest permanent outdoor sculpture exhibiitons in the world and took us the best part of 6.5 hrs to complete the entire triangular circuit between Aramac, Lake Dunn and Jericho.
Longreach
Just 27.2kms and a 20 minute drive from Ilfracombe is Longreach.
Just add the things to do in Ilfracombe and Longreach and you can easily spend quite a few days in this awesome Queensland outback region.
Two of Adele’s 5 favourite tours in all of Oz are tours from Longreach.
Read more about: Our Favourite Experiences as we Travel Australia
Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame
One of the most popular attractions and things to do in Longreach is the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame.
Following a $15m makeover, the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame is even bigger and better since our visit in first visit in 2017.
You can choose to do the Stockman’s Experience Tour which includes the Live Show, Entry to the Museum and Galleries plus the new Cinematic Experience or you can just opt for the Museum & Gallery Entry only.
Definitely include this iconic attraction to your list of things to do in Ilfracombe and nearby region.
Qantas Founders Museum
We enjoyed three of the Qantas Founders Museum tours and experiences when first visiting Longreach in 2017.
Firstly we wandered through the main exhibition hall of the amazing Qantas Founders Museum as well as the Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar.
Our second experience was going behind the scenes of the Boeing 707 and 747 as part of the 1.5 hr Airpark tour.
Since we visited they have constructed a roof over the iconic aircraft to protect them from the harsh outback sun.
Last but not least and the true highlight of the Qantas Founders Museum was the 747 Wing Walk, a once in a lifetime experience.
Since our first visit in 2017 they have added the Luminescent Longreach – Light and Sound Show which would be great to do as well.
Longreach
Outback Pioneers
The Kinnon Family are true outback pioneers.
They have really reinvented tourism in Longreach and they have a number of awesome tours and experiences.
Take an exhilarating Cobb & Co Stagecoach ride.
It is Australia’s only stagecoach gallop!
This amazing 4 hr tour includes riding the restored Cobb & Co Stagecoach through the main street of Longreach, galloping along a stretch of the original Longreach – Windorah mail run.
Also included is a traditional Aussie Morning Tea, a classic Australian movie in the retro cinema with canvas seats and the Harry Redford Old Time Tent Show – a tribute to the old time travelling shows.
Check out our: Top 10 Things to do in Longreach
Places to Stay in Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe Caravan Park
You can’t miss the Ilfracombe Caravan Park, just look for the red truck perched up on top of the entry way to this outback van park.
Accommodation options on offer include 55 Caravan Sites all with Power & Water and a range of fully self-contained cabins.
The cabins include Deluxe Queen Ensuite Cabins, a Family Cabin, a Pet Friendly Cabin and Queen Ensuite Villas.
Wellshot Hotel Campground
Located behind the Wellshot Hotel is the Wellshot Hotel Campground.
This is a paid campground where you can pull up stumps in your Caravan or Motorhome after a long drive or following a big afternoon session at the Wellshot Hotel lol.
Camping facilities at the Wellshot Hotel Campground include toilets, showers, drinking water, bins, laundry facilities and hook up to power.
It is accessible to caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, campervans and tent camping.
Pets are permitted.
Other great places to stay in the region:
Where to Eat and Drink in Ilfracombe
Wellshot Hotel
We had it on good authority that the Wellshot Hotel has awesome Steak Sandwiches.
Naturally, we had to stop into the Wellshot Hotel and experience one of the Steak Sangers for ourselves and we weren’t disappointed.
The Wellshot Hotel offers a wide range of meal options for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner including delicious home made pies.
Choose to dine inside in the Dining Room, outside in the Beer Garden or be like us and eat your lunch up at the bar!
The Coffee Hatch
At the front of the Wellshot Hotel is The Coffee Hatch.
Not only does the Wellshot Hotel have the coldest beer in the west, it also serves up the best coffee.
Choose from the usual coffees, Cappucino, Hot Chocolate, Chai Latte, Espresso or a good old Flat White.
You can also enjoy a refreshingly cold Iced Chocolate on a hot summer’s morning. Grab a delicious piece of cake or crossiant to go with your drink.
Open Monday to Saturday 6am – 12 noon and Sundays from 8am – 12 noon.
Ilfracombe Caravan Park
During tourist season, the Ilfracombe Caravan Park offer a set menu for a delicious hearty meal when staying at the park.
Choose from 5 different reasonably priced meals and there’s one dessert.
Spoil yourself with a home cooked meal simply by booking and paying at Reception before 3pm on the day and be seated at a table in the ‘Shed’ for your dinner.
Pin – Things to do in Ilfracombe
Have you ticked off any of these things to do in Ilfracombe Qld?
Tell us about your most memorable experience of Ilfracombe.
Safe travels
Kev & Adele
Indefinite Leave
We are Adele & Kevin, an Aussie couple from Brisbane in Queensland Australia who have embraced our adventurous spirit and ventured out to explore the world around us. We had spent so much time overseas we decided it was time to see our own truly amazing country and we needed to take some time to see everything it has to offer.
Our Aim is to inspire others to travel and help design the greatest adventure they can experience.
_____________________________________________________________________
Photography and Socials
Our camera equipment we use for all our photos and videos are:
Samsung Note 10 Plus Phone – http://ebay.us/9vMXEH – Most of our photos are simply from our phones. The Samsung phone cameras are pretty insane. Our phones have 512gb storage in ours but the 256gb in this one is heaps.
Samsung s21 Phone – https://ebay.us/QAdwva – this looks an insane camera within a phone. We have friends and our son who own one and it seems quite extraordinary with their camera quality. If you’re after a new phone this is what I’d be looking at.
Canon 800d – https://ebay.us/Q0UV1z – the latest DSLR Canon 24mp camera, buy here to save.
Nikon Coolpix p1000 – https://ebay.to/37cORUV – We have the Nikon P900 and this is the new model. The zoom lens is unbelievable and so awesome when travelling and you want to capture photos from a distance.
Lenses
Canon 50mm lens – https://ebay.to/3nx5pyG This is the lens I use the least, ideal for still, close up shots.
Canon 24-105mm lens – https://ebay.us/br9MeO – This is my all round, everyday use, zoom lens. Amazing quality, great price.
Canon 70-300mm lens – https://ebay.to/33xYeht – I use this one a lot for long range shots.
Sigma 10-20mm lens – http://ebay.us/zWvfuI – My wide angle lens for all my inside photos & video plus lots more, love this lens.
Our Go Pro 9 Hero Black – https://ebay.us/6CQOVC – is an awesome piece of equipment. I use this for all underwater, action video and some general use. Buy here brand new and great value.
Mavic Pro Platinum Drone – https://ebay.to/2ARPxTo This is an absolute ripper of a drone. The Fly More Combo will provide you with everything you will need. I use this for all my aerial footage and this price is well below other retail stores.
_______________________________________________________________________
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Rollingstone Caravan Park, Rollingstone Qld
Noosa North Shore Camping, Noosa Qld
Kalgoorlie Caravan Park, WA
