Stanthorpe on the road to being RV friendly

After several knock backs Southern Downs Regional Council has come out in support of Stanthorpe becoming RV friendly.

STOKED: Lindsay Saunders is happy with councils choice to support RV Friendly. Picture: Liana Walker

AFTER the Chamber of Commerce has been knocked back by Southern Downs Regional Council for 14 months, they're welcoming the news council will now support RV Friendly status for Stanthorpe.

Chamber executive Josh Cavallaro was delighted but surprised by council's change of heart.

"I'm both shocked and excited at the same time," Mr Cavallaro said.

"I'm shocked that they're saying that they are (supporting) because we've been told otherwise.

"But if that is the case and they're true to their word I'm really happy about it.

"It's definitely something we want to work with them on as well.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what they have to say and what their dealings with the appropriate bodies are to get that under way."

Lindsay Adams said RV friendly will attract droves of nomads to town. Picture: Liana Walker

To be eligible for RV friendly a town must have appropriate parking in the town centre with access to shopping for groceries, short term low cost overnight parking for self-contained recreational vehicles, access to potable water and a free dump point at an appropriate location.

A council spokesperson said Stanthorpe currently had most of these elements.

"Council officers are working with the industry to finalise the process," she said.

"Council has recently completed upgrading RV facilities in Wallangarra to accommodate these visitors.

"Southern Downs Regional Council welcomes all campers and tourists travelling in campervans, motorhomes and RV's to visit the region and enjoy all the Southern Downs has to offer.

"Council is trying to ensure that all current operators will benefit from a RV Friendly status."

Glen Aplin based grey nomad Lindsay Saunders knows, from travelling 60,000km around Australia, RV Friendly towns reap the economic benefits.

"Even a tank of fuel and a pie is close on $100," he said.

"When people come to Stanthorpe they're looking for fruit or local stuff.

"Tyres and batteries, the grey nomads don't like to go onto the next town if their spare tyre's flat, they want to get it fixed."

Mr Cavallaro said the biggest benefit would be attracting new visitors to region.

"(It's) just putting Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt back on the map."

Originally published as Stanthorpe on the road to being RV friendly