Like most grey nomads, Kev and Jenny Giles like to pursue a hobby as they travel … and theirs has led them to affordable camping spots, as well as some great social interactions.
The North Queensland couple, who generally spend December to April in the south, are both keen golfers and play once a week when on the road.
“We always get a great welcome when playing in regional golf tournaments,” said Kev. “You just can’t beat country hospitality … the people are lovely, ‘down to earth’, and keen to find out about us and our travels.”
The couple even won a prize at the George Town Annual Vets Golf Tournament this January for travelling the longest distance (2,877 kms) to compete.
Jenny chills out at another magnificent Tassie campground.
“We told them, tongue in cheek, that we specifically drove all that way just to play in their prestigious tournament,” said Kev.
As well as offering the chance to meet new people, golfing on the road has another useful perk … great camping.
The scenery and the camaraderie made the cost of the Spirit well worthwhile.
On their 10-week trip to Tasmania earlier this year, for example, the couple found golf clubs excellent places to stay on occasion. Indeed, their first night off the ferry was spent in Devonport Country Club which cost $10 per night, and the next was spent at Ulverstone Golf Club.
“Again, it cost $10 per night,” said Kev. “And it was a lovely bush setting with lots of birdlife … very quiet and peaceful.”
Even away from golf clubs, Kev and Jenny found getting a good campsite in Tassie straightforward, even in peak season.
“The traditional caravan parks are jam packed,” said Kev. “However, if you don’t mind being off grid or a less formal arrangement, there are heaps of options…. most of our time was spent off grid.”
The return trip on the Spirit cost the couple $2,561, which included their Avida Esperance motorhome, tow vehicle (Suzuki Grand Vitara 5 door), and a cabin both ways.
“Whilst the ferry trip sounds expensive (and it is), if time is on your side and you can have a lengthy spell in Tasmania, with so many camping areas which are either free or inexpensive (between $10 and $30 a night), the cost of the ferry pales into insignificance,” said Kev.
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