Just couldn't help sharing my own camping accommodation when I was a girl in the 50's. My Dad was a very practical and resourceful man who could turn his hands to anything. He gutted this bus, fully renovated it into the most amazing holiday experience for our family of 10. There was enough sleeping for 9 inside the bus and 2 more in the annex, so room for one friend. The annex had a timber floor made from pallet sized pieces that clicked together.
We had hot and cold water and a shower cubicle inside the bus, but no toilet. Even so, I reckon he was way ahead of his time with the bus design and function. Mum insisted on having a twin tub washing machine set up in the annex for the mountainous washing that 8 kids created.
Dad was also at the cutting edge of camera equipment at that time, which included his own movie camera, projector and quite a satisfying commercial film collection. During each camping experience, on Saturday and/or Sunday night, Dad would set up a big outdoor screen where we would get to watch movies on his movie projector. Other campers were invited and made to feel welcome and would bring along their folding chairs and join in. It was wonderful!
Every Christmas and at least two other times a year, we would be treated to a fantastic memorable holiday which still brings joy to my heart. Some of our holiday destinations were at Tathra Beach and Mallacoota. The Christmas holidays being our favourite as we would camp for the entire 6 weeks of our school holidays.
We would arrive to our holiday destination in convoy. One brother would be driving the bus, another brother would be driving a ute with the flooring and annex etc, Dad would be driving another vehicle towing our ski boat and Mum would be driving the car with all the remaining kids. What fun!
Good on you Dad! If you were still around I would sing your praises more to you, instead of to others who don't even know you.
Treasure your holiday memories, life tomorrow is never the same as today.
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