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For Lyn and Graham Turner, every trip is more than travel — it’s a caravanning adventure and a way of life.
Alongside their faithful companion Teddy Boy, they’ve spent more than eight-and-a-half years exploring Australia in their On The Move caravans, creating unforgettable adventures wherever they go.
Over that time, they’ve not only racked up countless adventures but also thoughtfully customised their van to perfectly suit their evolving needs.
When Lyn and Graham first chose their OTM caravan back in 2016, they knew exactly what they wanted.
“We weren’t going to buy a van that wouldn’t suit us,” Lyn said.
Their checklist included practical touches that made travel easier and more comfortable – from a layout that let Lyn get to bed quickly after a long day, to an indoor shower designed so you don’t have to step outside to pick up dropped soap.
As time’s gone on, they’ve made thoughtful changes to suit their lifestyle.
“We’ve done a few modifications to suit ourselves,” Graham said. “Put an inverter in, electric winch drawbar, changed the electrical system… just things that make it easier as you get older.”
One of Graham’s favourites? The electric jockey wheel.
“You just press a button instead of winding it. So much easier. Another one is the savvy level, I just look at my phone and adjust the levels.”
“Now I can be of some use instead of Graham doing all the bits and pieces,” Lynn said.
Caravanning runs in the family – Graham’s father owned a van with a pop-top roof and used to tow it with an old EH Holden.
“That was luxury back then,” Graham said. “But it had no shower, no toilet, no hot water. If you wanted to wash your hands, you’d pump the water and boil the jug.”
Seeing how far things have come gives Graham a real appreciation for their OTM.
“When I look at the comfort and functionality we’ve got now, it’s chalk and cheese,” he said.
Though semi-retired, Lyn and Graham squeeze in trips whenever they can, from local escapes in Brisbane’s hinterland to grand adventures as far north as Barkly Homestead near Mount Isa, and down through South Australia and Victoria.
“We’ve worn out three sets of tires already!” Graham said.
They’re not full-timers, but their love for the outdoors and meeting fellow travellers runs deep.
This year marked their fifth On The Move Owners Retreat, having attended memorable gatherings at Lightning Ridge, Port Stevens, and Pie Creek.
“We love catching up with friends we’ve met along the way,” Lyn said. The retreats are more than just events, they’re an opportunity to share stories, swap tips, and discover clever solutions from other OTM owners.
Graham brings a lifetime of experience with him – not only as a skilled engineer who once maintained over 120 radio sites across Australia, but also as someone who knows the importance of proper maintenance and the right towing vehicle.
He had a few tips for those hitting the road, especially if you’re new to towing.
“Keep things maintained,” Graham said. “Make sure your tow vehicle’s capable. That’s the biggest issue these days, the weight factor.”
“I agree with towing courses too. If you’re not experienced, they’re worth it. My parents were caravanners, Dad built his own vans. I was lucky to grow up with that.”
And of course, don’t skimp on comfort.
“People won’t use their air conditioner because it costs $5 more,” Graham said. “I’d rather be comfortable myself. You can’t put a price on comfort.”
With 146 recorded outings and more than 700 nights in the van, Lyn keeps a detailed travel diary.
“If I need to look back at where we’ve been, it’s a great reference,” she said. “It’s just part of our life now.”
As they look toward full retirement, the couple have one destination firmly on the bucket list.
“I’d like to go down to Tasmania again,” Graham said. “I’ve been, but not with the van. Maybe after I retire, we’ll go down for a few months.”
Wherever they go next, one thing’s certain: their OTM van will be ready and Teddy Boy in the back, tail wagging and ready to roll.
