The Cooma Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the proposal for Cooma to be recognised as an RV Friendly Town (RVFT) under the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) program. The RVFT initiative is far more than just a title. It is a nationally recognised standard that signals to the growing RV tourism market that a town is welcoming, accessible, and well-prepared to meet their needs. In doing so, it provides significant economic opportunities for local businesses while also enhancing the appeal of the town for all visitors. According to the CMCA, there are more than 620,000 registered RVs in Australia, with travellers spending on average $770 per week in the towns they visit. These visitors often travel year-round and outside peak tourism seasons, providing a stable and sustainable source of income for regional communities. One of the program’s key strengths is that it is not a one-way arrangement in favour of RV travellers. It is specifically designed to encourage local business owners to be pro-active in meeting the needs of this market and, in turn, benefit directly through increased foot traffic and expenditure. Shops, service stations, cafés, restaurants, pubs, supermarkets, and local attractions all stand to gain from what the CMCA calls 'increased dwell time', the longer travellers choose to stay, the more they spend in our town. As the gateway to the Snowy Mountains, Cooma is perfectly positioned to capture the RV traveller market. Many travellers already pass through our town, and with appropriate facilities and formal recognition as an RV Friendly Town, we can encourage them to stop, stay, and spend rather than simply transit. This initiative aligns with council’s tourism, economic development, and community objectives, ensuring that Cooma remains a vibrant hub within the Snowy Monaro region. The chamber fully supports Cooma becoming an RV Friendly Town and urges Council to initiate discussions with the CMCA to progress accreditation. The chamber is committed to working with council and other stakeholders to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and services are put in place to welcome this important visitor market. We believe this will deliver long-lasting benefits to both local businesses and the broader community. Lynette Armour President, Cooma Chamber of Commerce
