PRESS RELEASE: CMCA Celebrates 40 Years of Community, Advocacy and Life on the Road

Since its founding in 1986, CMCA has grown from a simple idea around a dining room table into a national club of over 60,000 members – the largest of its kind in Australia.

The Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) is proud to be celebrating 40 years of serving the RV community, bringing like-minded people together and advocating for RV travel Australia-wide.

CMCA Chairman, Nelson Crawshaw says, “Forty years ago, two passionate individuals came together with a shared dream, and what they built has grown into something truly extraordinary. This milestone belongs to every member, volunteer, and supporter who has been part of our story.”

A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Over the past four decades, CMCA has:
• Welcomed more than 150,000 members (past and present)
• Hosted national rallies, state rallies and smaller events Australia-wide, driving spend and economic growth in towns and regions
• Been at the forefront of installing RV infrastructure and providing services to preserve the RV lifestyle
• Developed a network of 17 CMCA Parks Australia-wide
• Worked with all levels of government to increase RV tourism, offer advice and increase awareness on RV-related issues.

CMCA’s CEO, Richard Barwick, is proud of what the club has achieved in 40 years and believes there is a strong future ahead for incredible growth and success.
“Forty years is a remarkable achievement, but what excites me most is where we’re headed. The foundations built by those before us give us a tremendous platform to do even greater things in the years to come,” said Mr Barwick.

“We’re aiming to grow our membership to 500,000 over the next 10 years. It won’t be easy, and it will require a lot of change. But we can do it.”

To mark this incredible milestone, CMCA will be hosting a celebration for its members at its head office with a complimentary barbecue lunch, featuring guest speakers and cutting of the cake.

CMCA Co-founder Erica Whitworth, wife of the late Don Whitworth (Co-founder), will be travelling from her home in Tweed Heads down to Newcastle to attend the celebration.

Erica is grateful to everyone who helped make their dream come true, stating “I am thankful for all who picked up Don’s dream and ran with it. Our wonderful volunteers, board members, staff and members, whom without we would not have such an incredibly supportive and friendly club.”

In addition, several Honorary Life Members will be travelling enormous distances, including outback Queensland, to attend and celebrate 40 years of the club.

The event provides an opportunity to reflect on CMCA’s journey, acknowledge the dedication of past and present members, and celebrate the friendships and experiences that define the CMCA community.

Date: Monday 13 April 2026
Time: 11am
Venue: CMCA Head Office, 49 The Avenue, Maryville NSW

ENDS

Media Opportunities:
The media is welcome to attend the 40th anniversary celebrations at CMCA Head Office on Monday 13 April 2026.
Photograph and interview opportunities are available with CEO Richard Barwick, Chairman Nelson Crawshaw and Co-founder Erica Whitworth.

Media Contact:
Richard Barwick
CMCA Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]