A keen caravanner, Gunnedah Shire Council Property Manager, Lyndon Hughes, was more than happy to park his rig at the front gate to welcome visitors and collect camping fees.

While he did not keep a tally, Mr Hughes said more than 200 RVs, possibly more, would have been camped at the Showground “primitive camping area” and the Kennel Club grounds.

“Caravanners are mostly a happy lot and they are always pleased to have drive-through sites and plenty of room,” Mr Hughes said.

Quite a few Showground sites have water and electricity but most caravanners are set up for off-road camping these days and were quite happy to use their own power sources, like battery back-up, gas and solar panels.

Tents and camper-trailers were also set up with a number of fifth-wheelers, which are growing in popularity and are seen more and more on the road.

The Showground sites were all marked with white lines to avoid caravanners camping anywhere and creating safety issues.

“It is very important to have an escape route in case of fire,” Mr Hughes said.

Mr Hughes is also a wealth of knowledge about local history and attractions and was quite happy to pass on information if asked.

Although the Showground is generally not available for itinerant travellers, the re-opening of the designated council “primitive camping area” at the Showground has been welcomed by  travellers, especially those with big rigs and is gaining popularity as the word passes around through the “Grey Nomad bush telegraph”.