My name is Graham Gardiner. I am 72 year old and married to Judy for 52 years, with three daughters and seven grandchildren. We live in Maleny, Queensland and been here for 12 years. In all our travels around Oz we have not found a place that we like better!
What is your role?
My role at Camps is as a researcher. I enjoy sharing sites that we come across in our travels and also tracking down new sites and sharing them and visiting them in my later travels, if feasible.
How did you come to work for CAMPS?
My son in law is Gavin James from Mapuccino, who does all the mapping for Camps. He gave me a copy of Camps years ago. I loved it and use it all the time. Eventually, I spoke to Heatley and Michelle and offered my services, which they accepted.
Who do you travel with?
Judy and I travel with our dog Roger – Jack Russell/Red Cattle dog cross. He is a great travelling companion. Judy reckons he is a bit like me – that is to say, naughty at times but still loveable!
How do you camp?
Our 21ft 6in Jayco Sterling with en-suite is not an off-roader, however we love the comfort and space it provides. Towed with a Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8l V6 it does the job perfectly – albeit a bit thirsty on fuel!
We have travelling for about 14 years – right around Oz, Cape York, South Australia, Birdsville, Adele’s Grove, Karumba and in June ‘21 we are off to King Ash Bay, Alice Springs, Uluru, Coober Pedy, Broken Hill, Tibbuburra and home through NSW. Will be away about three months.
What are your hobbies?
I have always been a keen sportsman and played tennis and rugby league to a high level when young. For 45 years I’ve played squash and was playing A grade at age 70, unfortunately, a serious muscle complaint ended it all.
Through volunteering on the management committee at the Maleny Visitor Information Centre, I have been endeavouring through CMCA and local authorities to get Maleny approved as an RV Friendly Town – a work in progress.
Judy is a very accomplished artist potter. We put boxes of pots under the bed in the van and sell them at markets as we travel. Her work can be viewed on Facebook and instagram @judyspopuppotshop.
Hope to see you on the road!
Both images are taken at SA Moonta RV Overnight Stop – Photo credit G & J Gardiner
