Caravan Industry Victoria (CIV) is set to participate in the MND Victoria Bendigo Walk for Care on November 23, 2023, at Lake Weeroona Park in Bendigo. This event is particularly meaningful as it aims to support industry veteran Tony Briant, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease earlier this year. Briant, who served as CIV’s President from 2005 to 2010, has significantly contributed to the caravan industry and its community.
CIV has strong ties to Bendigo, having hosted the Bendigo Caravan & Camping Leisurefest since 2001. This outdoor lifestyle event, initiated by Briant over two decades ago, has consistently supported local charities. This year, the focus is on the vital services offered by MND Victoria, which include counselling, carer programs, and provision of assistive equipment for those living with motor neurone disease. Notably, MND Victoria is the only non-profit organization in Victoria providing these essential services at no cost to patients and their families.
MND Victoria Fundraising Manager, Leah Szymanski, expressed gratitude for community initiatives like the Bendigo Walk for Care. “Community fundraisers, such as our longstanding Bendigo Walk For Care and this year’s Bendigo Caravan & Camping Leisurefest, make a huge difference to MND Victoria. It’s thanks to our community of generous donors and fundraisers that we’re able to support every Victorian living with MND,” she stated. Szymanski also acknowledged the impact of Briant’s diagnosis, noting the commitment of CIV to honour him during this event.
At the CIV Hall of Fame and Industry Awards held this past June at Crown Casino, Briant received the prestigious honour of being inducted as a CIV Life Member. This recognition is particularly significant, as only 28 individuals have achieved Life Member status since the organization’s inception in 1952. CIV CEO Daniel Sahlberg described Briant as a “mentor and leader” who exemplified knowledge sharing and collaboration. He noted Briant’s resilience in facing his health challenges, stating, “Although it has broken his heart that he cannot contribute in the same way with his hands-on approach, his mark has been left on this industry and our people for generations to come.”
Reflecting on his career, Briant shared an anecdote from his time in the caravan industry: “During the day at caravan shows, we [exhibitors] were enemies, but at the end of the day, when we got to the bar, we were best of friends.” His journey through the industry has shaped his legacy, from sweeping production floors to leading sales teams with some of Australia’s most iconic brands.
Sahlberg highlighted Briant’s influence, saying, “There is barely any sector of the industry that hasn’t been influenced or improved by Tony Briant.” His contributions extend to the training of over 250 students throughout Australia, ensuring that his impact will resonate within the industry for years to come.
CIV encourages members who have previously worked with Tony Briant to join the walk. Those unable to attend can still contribute by donating to the Caravan Industry Association fundraising page. The MND Victoria Bendigo Walk for Care is scheduled for this Sunday from 10:00 to 12:30 at Lake Weeroona Park. CIV has established a fundraising page at mnd.org.au/my-fundraising/3343/caravan-industry-victoria.
Following the walk, the Bendigo Caravan & Camping Leisurefest will take place from November 21 to 23 at Bendigo Racecourse. With over 110 exhibitors, it stands as the largest caravan and outdoor lifestyle show in the Goldfields, providing an excellent opportunity for the community to engage and support local initiatives. Tickets are available at caravanshow.com.au.
