History
In 1993 and 1994 Russell Seebach, with a long background in all sorts of Outback travel, filled the role of back-up and support staff on several caravan expeditions run by Aussie Outback Tours. Seeing these tours at first hand, and noting the limitations of regular caravans, Russell was inspired to build a caravan which would handle all sorts of terrain and also provide a high level of comfort and independence.
Russell teamed with Craig Miles to begin a new business in Bayswater, and the Trakmaster badge appeared on their first caravan in 1995. Since then the demand for Trakmaster caravans has continually increased, requiring several extensions to their first factory and then a move to larger premises in 2001 and 2005 then a further move in 2011 to a large industrial site with room for future expansion.
The range of models includes pop-tops and full height vans, including our rugged Gibson van that gives the versatility of an off road trailer-camper, but without all the hassles of setting up. So whether you are considering short trips into the outback, or long stays in remote areas with all the creature comforts of home, Trakmaster can build a van to suit you. All products are built for the toughest Australian conditions.
All caravans have employed independent suspension from the outset. Trakmaster has pioneered TrakAir® airbag suspension, an adjustable-pressure air suspension which has established the caravan industry benchmark for Australia.
Philosophy
Each Trakmaster unit is made to the specifications required by the purchaser. Quality hand-built production rather than mass production is the philosophy behind every unit. Each van is badged with the name of the owner to confirm the special interest taken in the workmanship and the attention to detail specifically for that client.
While every caravan carries a written warranty, the Trakmaster business demonstrates its interest in the product by running Introductory Tours and at least one Main Tour each year into the Australian Outback, especially to ensure that every owner understands the van’s capabilities.
Factory staff accompany each tour to give them insight into the demands of Outback travel. This hands-on approach informs the design team and factory staff of the performance of componentry and helps in the selection of the most reliable and appropriate fittings. It also illustrates the confidence that Trakmaster has in its products.
The Future
Trakmaster is now a part of the TRACK Group. An Australian Family Owned and Operated business specialising in design and development of sheet-metal off-road campers and caravans including the Tvan and T4. This Group includes TRACK, Trakmaster, Pioneer and Outback HQ.
RVSA
The Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) is the biggest legislative change the Australian Caravan Industry has seen in over 30 years. For Recreational Vehicle Manufacturers and Importers in Australia, the RVSA is set to completely transform the industry as we know it.
The Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) 2018 is replacing the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989. The RVSA better reflects the significant changes in global and domestic vehicle markets and improvements in vehicle technologies over the last few decades.
RVMAP is an Australian Design Rule (ADR) and Federal compliance voluntarily educational program providing necessary inspection, education, and technical advice.
“Working towards a safer RV industry”
CIA VIC
The Caravan Industry Victoria (CIV) was formed in 1952 to foster the growth of caravanning holidays in Victoria. The Association quickly became an integral body for like-minded entrepreneurs who were manufacturing caravans, recreational vehicles, RV accessories and technology in Victoria.
Today, 90 per cent of all caravan manufacturing in Australia takes place in Victoria. Major component suppliers use Victoria as their base including chassis manufacturers, timber, aluminium and fibreglass suppliers. There are also a growing number of electronics and alternative power manufacturers.
