While most young families are keen to load up the van and head to the coast over Christmas, many grey nomads prefer to go in the opposite direction … even when they live there!
Among them are John and Chris Lawrance who moved to a beautiful coastal village two hours from Sydney when they retired.
“It has a population of about 3,000 but that doubles over Christmas and Easter,” said Chris. “And, as much as I love the coast and swimming, it is a great time to go away from the craziness that tourists bring!”
Having said that, Chris said she and most locals at the settlement have no real issues with the visitor influx.
The Lawrances travel with their two dogs in a Mercedes Sprinter campervan
“Most villagers accept that all tourists add to the economy,” she said. “Over 2025, we have noticed about 50 free campers camping in the beach car park which is signposted ‘No Camping’ … but all but one have been respectful and you wouldn’t hardly notice they were there.”
John and Chris now travel with their two little dogs in a Mercedes Sprinter campervan that boasts all the ‘bells and whistles’, and which they say took a chunk of their super ‘but was – and is – worth it’!
Chris – an avid camper since childhood – says the van is set up for free camping and the couple loves the peace and quiet of the bush and visiting country towns.
“If we can get a free or cheap camping spot, then it means the money that would have gone to a caravan park goes to everyone in the community via our spending on coffee, food and fuel,” she said.
Like many nomads, John and Chris tend to leave the free camps they use cleaner than when they arrived.
“I believe if we don’t look after free camps the locals will say enough is enough,” she said. “And then, those that can’t afford to travel will miss out when they close.”
The Lawrances also like to camp outside country pubs.
“They often only stipulate buying a drink or meal,” said Chris. “And we are happy to oblige and not have to cook for the night!”
And the couple’s adventures are just beginning. “Australia has so much to see and do,” said Chris. “We really are the lucky country!”
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