Mark & Pam
Mark and Pam Nicolson’s dream trip to Birdsville, Boulia, the Gulf Country, and up to Cape York is off the table … at least for now.
“At the moment it doesn’t feel right to leave home with all the uncertainty,” said Pam. “If fuel becomes readily available, we will definitely try and get on the road somewhere, but maybe not the trip we planned.”
The couple have been itching to test their recently-bought Explorer off-road motorhome with a big trip, and they were looking forward to visiting country towns and supporting local economies as they went.
Mark and Pam Nicolson are keen to take their new motorhome on a big trip.

Mark and Pam’s new motorhome will take short trips … for now.
“The distance tankers have to travel to these areas to provide fuel for these locals and farmers may mean they get less,” said Pam. “I want to support them, but not take what fuel they have available.
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Shane & Tracey
Shane and Tracey Collins, who live near Ballarat in Victoria, have abandoned their plans to head north and visit places like Darwin and the Kimberley.
“We have decided not to go for three reasons,” said Shane. “The availability of fuel, the cost of diesel, and the condition of roads due to flooding.”
Like many others, the couple had booked their accommodation in popular tourist destinations many months in advance but these have all had to be can-
celled.

The reduction in fuel excise has brought vanners some relief at the bowser.
The disappointment is particularly acute as Shane and Tracey had to cancel their big winter trip last year due to a death in the family.
Shane says they will now wait until 2027 to do a big trip, but will take shorter trips in Victoria in their 18’ Jayco pop top towed by a Pajero in the meantime.
“We think this war will go on for a while yet and will take many months for things to return to normal,” he said.
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WIN A COBB GRILL GAS+
Grey Nomad members are being given the chance to win a Cobb Grill Gas+, the ultimate portable barbecue option for those who live life on the road.
The just-released grill connects directly to LPG, adding extra versatility to the existing Cobb range which already includes charcoal and Butane gas options.
The Cobb Grill Gas+ also has built-in Flame Failure Device (FFD), a wind-resistant burner design, a cool-to-touch outer base, and is easy to clean.
Retailing for $479, the Cobb Grill Gas+ comes with a cooking plate, 1.5-metre hose & regulator, lifting fork, and a carry bag.