After a long period of research, we finally found our motorhome - a 2013 Esperence. We originally were not intending on purchasing a 2nd hand vehicle, however, this one turned up with less than 13,000 klms on the clock and still in the run in period. We did not want to trade in the camper as nobody wins when they are on the seller end of the deal, but we decided could not let this one get away so we threw out hat in the ring before someone beat us to it! It is the upper model of the Esperence range with bull bar, bike racks, 180w solar panels and vacuum toilet. I have to say the service we got from Hinterland was above and beyond, however out of several other dealerships that we had contact with and requested call backs if they got anything in stock that suited our needs, Jenni at Hinterland was the only person over a 12 month period that regularly made contact with us with updates and info about current stock possibilities. We have the option to fit a tow bar, but through we would get used to driving it as is before we considered further modifications/additions. Next on the agenda is to weigh with full fuel and water, driver and passenger, generator, compressor and other items we consider essential to see what we have left to play with in respect of payload .... always a bit of a worry, although judging from what we took away in the camper this year and what was never used, we have a tendancy to overpack in respect of the "just in case" things ....... A couple of pics of the outside attached ..... inside is basically exactly as per the standard model with rear island bed (which I have pinched from online site). As we have a month planned in Tassie from mid February staying in cabins, we will not be christening it until we get back in March where we intend to check out NSW before hearing to Queensland for winter.
Finally, I would be interested in suggestions and recommendations regarding weather covers ....... the unit will be stored in the open at home during the summer months, so considering the $ investment, we would not want to risk damage by hail, sun etc. One of our thoughts was to have a cover for the top of the van only as that would be where the biggest exposure is to hail ......... I did a bit of research on line and found the top of the line covers come in at $3000 from some manufacturers. Would appreciate your thoughts .....
Merry Christmas to you all - as the song goes "go well and safely - stay well and safely" .......
Thanks Snail ..... unfortunately a carport is not possible due to room ........ not to mention council regulations and existing structures. Still in thinking mode but will consider perhaps some type of semi-permanent carport where a development application is not required as it can be moved ......
Cheers
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The Maccas ....
2013 Avida Esperance Motorhome - based in northern NSW.
we noticed in brisbane suburbs that there were lots of shade sail type structures, that were there for the hail and uv. Also beats the planning approvals, some had shade cloth on the weather side as well. Support posts were family large to take the load of wind
Have a Good look at a the possibility of a carport..
we have some funny rules in our area, and we got approval for a Carport... and it's big enough for me to get the bus under if the weather does get ****ty..
Juergen
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