Are You RV Safe? Recap of Episode 1

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By Car Brand Experts


Initiating the Ultimate RV Adventure

The open road beckons, and what better way to answer that call than by embarking on an RV journey to explore every corner of Australia? However, before hitting the highway, it’s essential to prioritize safety. In the premiere episode of Are You RV Safe?, hosts John Eggenhuzien and Michael ‘Borgy’ Borg demonstrate to three eager learners—Jessica, Evan, and Martin—that understanding RV safety can be engaging and fun.

The Purpose Behind the Project

This RV Road Safety initiative is aimed at increasing awareness and providing education tailored specifically to the RV sector. The rvSafe program is backed by the Federal Government’s Road Safety Awareness and Enablers Fund and has the strong support of the Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia Limited (CMCA). We extend our sincere gratitude for their support, along with that of our incredible sponsors, for making the ‘Are You rvSafe?’ series possible.

Introducing the Learners

Are you rvSafe The Learners

Our diverse group of RV newcomers each bring their unique stories and motivations for hitting the road:

  • Jessica, a mother of two, is excited to contribute to family driving excursions. She aims to learn how to tow a larger caravan, much bigger than the camper trailer she currently uses.
  • Evan is passionate about four-wheel driving, but feels less confident in towing. After a mishap with his first camper, he’s looking to fix his mistakes and prevent future issues.
  • Martin is preparing to purchase a motorhome, but wants to ensure he’s equipped with the necessary skills for safe handling beforehand.

Leading these motivated learners are John and Borgy, both experienced RV enthusiasts who are eager to share their knowledge while making the experience enjoyable.


Commencing the Road Safety Journey

Are you rvSafe Hero

The episode begins with each learner being matched with an RV:

  • Jessica drives a Volkswagen Amarok V6 towing a Windsor Wild caravan. This arrangement offers ample space for her family and a strong emphasis on safety.
  • Evan is at the helm of a Volkswagen Amarok 2.0L TDI, pulling a Hitch Campers Canning camper trailer. This lightweight and durable combination is perfect for his off-road pursuits.
  • Martin operates a KEA River Motorhome—a luxurious yet manageable RV, suited for future road adventures with his grandchildren.

Recognizing the Risks

John and Borgy quickly delve into road safety, addressing common but critical risks such as speeding, fatigue, and overconfidence while driving. Jessica shares her poignant personal experience of a car accident, stressing the necessity of acquiring the right skills before embarking on the road.

Viewing the Road from a Trucker’s Perspective

Are you rvSafe Truck visibility

A highlight of the episode occurs when the learners gain insight into the road from a truck driver’s standpoint. They inspect one of Australia’s enormous road trains, which can be over 50 meters long and weigh as much as 200 tons! Sitting in the truck’s cabin, they come to understand how challenging it can be for truckers to see smaller vehicles like RVs. This enlightening experience emphasizes the critical need to provide ample space for these large vehicles on the roadway.

Effective Communication

Are you rvSafe Communications

Next, Borgy highlights the significance of communication while driving, introducing the learners to UHF radios. They get the chance to test the Uniden Xtrak Pro Models, which are essential tools for maintaining connectivity, even in remote locations. The group learns how to utilize these radios to stay in contact with other drivers, particularly when they’re in the wilderness.

Looking Ahead

As the episode concludes, our learners are just beginning their adventure. In the next episode, they will delve into aftermarket accessories, weight distribution, and the crucial dos and don’ts of packing an RV. This is a must-see for anyone looking to equip their rig and ensure they are road-ready. The season continues, and a complete list of episodes is available here.

Be Part of the Journey

Whether you’re an RV veteran or a novice, Are You RV Safe? serves as the ultimate resource for embarking on your road trip with assurance. Don’t miss the next episode to learn more about making your RV experiences safe, enjoyable, and full of adventure.




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