Coffee with Michael Cameron: The Road to Cameron Caravans

From humble beginnings in a family-run business to leading a well-known name in the WA caravan industry, Michael Cameron has spent decades evolving and adapting to market trends. We sat down with Michael to discuss the journey of Cameron Caravans, the industry’s future, and the philosophy behind his success.

A Family Legacy on Wheels

Michael’s journey in the caravan industry started early, growing up around the family business founded by his parents in 1978. Initially drawn to a career in building, Michael’s plans changed when an apprenticeship fell through, leading him to work alongside his father. It wasn’t long before he realised that caravans were more than just a job—they were a passion.

“I actually wanted to be a builder,” Michael recalls, “but when that didn’t pan out, I started working for Dad, and I never left.”

In addition to working in the family business, Michael spent several years working on farms, gaining valuable experience in machinery operation and the agricultural sector. This hands-on work gave him a deep appreciation for practical mechanics, problem-solving, and the resilience required in rural industries—skills that would later prove invaluable in running Cameron Caravans.

By 2003, Michael had taken over the reins of Cameron Caravans, with the transition made smoother through careful financial planning and guidance. “Lincoln’s played a huge role in making sure the transition was structured well for both Mum and Dad and for me moving forward.”

Building a Brand, Not Just Selling Caravans

Over the years, Cameron Caravans has expanded far beyond a standard dealership. Michael has always had a keen eye for industry trends, testing different brands, introducing new models, and eventually taking control of the manufacturing process.

“The caravan industry changes fast,” he explains. “We used to just sell and service vans, but now, with our own CRV brand, we oversee everything—from design to quality control.”

This shift came after recognising the need for consistency and quality in the market. “If I’m going to put my name on a product, it has to be the best.”

Expanding to Perth: A Game Changer

Cameron Caravans originates in Albany, but Michael saw the growth potential. The decision to expand to Perth wasn’t just about increasing sales—it was about efficiency and future-proofing the business.

“Covid was a boom, but with every boom, there’s a bust,” he says. “We looked at our customer base and realised 70% of our sales were coming from outside Albany. So, setting up in Perth allowed us to be where our customers are.”

Since opening in Perth, the business has continued to evolve, with an emphasis on creating efficiencies in production and distribution while maintaining a high level of customer service.

The Power of Reputation and Relationships

When asked about the philosophy behind his business, Michael doesn’t hesitate. “It’s all about relationships and doing the right thing by people.”

From customers to suppliers, Michael has built his business on trust and networking. Known for his "gift of the gab," he thrives on engaging with people, whether it’s at industry events, trade shows, or simply chatting with customers. “I tell people to join our CRV Owners Group and ask existing customers about their experience. When you have a great product and back it with excellent service, your customers become your best salespeople.”

Listening to Customers: Owners Gatherings and Innovation

One of the unique aspects of Cameron Caravans is its Owners Gatherings—events where Michael and his team sit down with customers to hear their feedback.

“We get all our owners together, have a few drinks, and go through everything—what they love, what they don’t, and what they’d like to see in future models,” he explains. “Last year, we took their feedback and implemented nearly every suggestion into our Series 2 models.”

This direct engagement has not only strengthened customer relationships but also led to real product innovation.

The Future of Caravanning

Looking ahead, Michael sees big changes on the horizon. “The push for electric vehicles is shifting the industry, but rather than downsizing, we’re seeing new utes with higher towing capacities. This paves the way for cutting-edge caravan designs and the next wave of innovation in the industry”

With plans for more innovation and continued expansion, Cameron Caravans is poised to keep leading the way in WA’s caravan market.

Advice for First-Time Caravan Buyers

Michael’s top tip? “Skip the camper trailer step. Too many people buy one, use it for a year, and then realise they should have gone straight to a caravan. If you’re serious about caravanning, stretch your budget and invest in something that will make your trips easy and enjoyable.”

With nearly 40 years in the industry, it’s clear that Michael’s passion for caravanning and commitment to quality are what keep Cameron Caravans rolling forward.

Visit Cameron Caravans’ website for more information.

Interview by Paul Meaton & Dale Bloor