MySwag.org The Off-road Camper Trailer Forum
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: MDS69 on January 30, 2012, 02:25:17 PM
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Has anyone heard this. I read it on ExploreOz. God I hope it's not true
http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/Topic/91543/Trackabout_camper_trailers_in_receivership.aspx?ky=&sn=&p=%2fForum%2fDefault.aspx%3fpn%3d1 (http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/Topic/91543/Trackabout_camper_trailers_in_receivership.aspx?ky=&sn=&p=%2fForum%2fDefault.aspx%3fpn%3d1)
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Johnny Trackabout is a member of this forum - lets wait for his reply and not let rumour and speculation take hold.
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Johnny Trackabout is a member of this forum - lets wait for his reply and not let rumour and speculation take hold.
exactly right
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Sad, but looks true :'(
http://www.search.asic.gov.au/cgi-bin/gns030c?juris=9&hdtext=ACN&srchsrc=1&acn=131808305 (http://www.search.asic.gov.au/cgi-bin/gns030c?juris=9&hdtext=ACN&srchsrc=1&acn=131808305)
"ASIC National Names Index
Australian Securities & Investments Commission Index of corporate and business names
Extracted from ASIC's database at AEST 16:39:42 on 30/01/2012
Name TRACKABOUT OFF ROAD CAMPERS PTY LTD
ACN 131 808 305
ABN 25 131 808 305
Type Australian Proprietary Company, Limited By Shares
Registration Date 24/06/2008
Next Review Date 24/06/2012
Status ** UNDER EXTERNAL ADMINISTRATION and/or CONTROLLER APPOINTED **
Locality of Registered Office Slacks Creek QLD 4127
Jurisdiction Australian Securities & Investments Commission
These are the documents that ASIC has most recently received from or in relation to this organisation. Page numbers are shown if processing is complete and the document is available for purchase.
Date Number Pages Description
27/01/2012 7E4241649 2 505U Notification of Appt of Administrator Under S.436a, 436b,
436c, 436e(4), 449b, 449c(1), 449c(4) or 449(6)
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Good Luck JT, hope things can be worked thru.
:cheers:
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Will wait for John's reply - but for the record, receivers and administrators are 2 different things.
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It seems that they have only gone into Administration, Which is a not receivership. Hopefully He can sort things out with the Administrator taking control and get back on track.
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Unfortunately it's true. As of Friday 27th January 2012 the company went into voluntary administration. The global financial crisis is our reason for coming unstuck. We got hit hard when people chose to stop spending money on luxury products, which at the end of the day a quality built camper trailer is. We got behind in taxes and although business has been steady the past 12-18 months we haven't been able to recover from that debt.
The ATO is now playing hard ball, not just with us, but with hundreds of companies in similar situations. The Tax Commissioner stated less than a month ago that 800-900 Australian businesses are going into administration/receivership every month. He expects that number to increase during 2012. With the ongoing global financial crisis, increasing imports available at low prices and this back debt, we sought advice and have chosen to go into voluntary administration.
People have likened me to Dick Smith in that I always try to support Australian made. I urge all prospective buyers to support Australian made products, otherwise there won't be any in the future. No Australian manufacturing equals no jobs in this industry for our kids.
I know Trackabout is not alone in his predicament. I urge you all to support Australian camper trailer manufacturers or there will be more threads like this one in the coming year.
We would like to thank all of our loyal customers for their support over the past 10 years. I've enjoyed providing a great product for you all to enjoy the great outdoors ... and your camper trailers will all be around for a long time. Ironically you may have seen that we came runner up in the Camper Trailer Australia Camper of the Year, second place by a tiny little margin. So rest assured you've got a good product.
Over the years I've had several offers to buy Trackabout, but I wasn't ready to sell. If anyone wants to pick it up now as a going concern, with a strong brand and market presence, send me a personal message and I will pass your details on. My health has suffered over the last 6-12 months and I won't be continuing with Trackabout, irrespective of what comes out of the voluntary administration.
I won't be posting other comments on this thread. This is not an easy time for me and I would appreciate people respecting how difficult this is after ten years owning Trackabout. So thanks again for your support during these ten years. Maybe I'll actually get out now to enjoy the product now ;D
Cheers
JT
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Shame, you have built up such a great reputation too :( As you say, your not alone ...
Some great points in ya post too in releation to cheap rubbish on the market in all fa, and buying AU made or theres no future jobs for our kids except selling imported stuff...
Hook up the trailer, I'm sure we can arrange a Relaxing weekend in the High Country for you with drinks (Calling Speewa)... :)
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Shit mate bad news for sure. If your product can't get through it then I don't know will.
Still massively appreciate your time and brains that went into our tracky. If you have some time off and are down Yamba way I'll shout you a few beers for sure :cheers: flemo
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That is such a shame. Wish you all the best for the future.
I know that in our research for CT's we will ONLY be buying one of the Aust made model.
I noticed that in the ExplorOz thread that someone else was alluding that Lifestyle were possibly heading the same way.
I've emailed them for comment on this...and to jump on it if it is not correct....you don't want that to be alluded to if it is incorrect.
Especially since Lifestyle is still at the top of our "to buy" list!!
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Good luck John,
Trackabout make a great product and you and your staff deserve a much better outcome than this.
Richard
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Good luck John,
Trackabout make a great product and you and your staff deserve a much better outcome than this.
+1
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Very sad news. Trackabout set the benchmark not only for product but service, in the camper trailer industry.
Looks like the price's of second hand trackabout's are about to go through the roof.
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Looks like the price's of second hand trackabout's are about to go through the roof.
Not mine, I'm keeping it as I can't upgrade. :'(
Sorry to hear this John, I only got to meet you a couple of times in Moss St but nothing was too much trouble. The CT industry has lost a true innovator and leader.
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That's a damn shame John. I hope you and your crew come out of this chin up and positive mate.
See you at a campfire soon I hope.......maybe the 2013 National meet...or sooner!!
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Hard luck JT
Good luck to you and your familly through this and good luck to all the guys you had working for you :cheers:
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Very sad to hear this news John. Keep your chin up and hope all works out for the best.
Trevor
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All the best John.
Hope things get better for you in the future.
Regards
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1 Life mate enjoy it will you can
You have spent 10 years busten your balls so others can enjoy
Now its your turn :cup:
Chin up
Im still not going to have a drinking comp with you
:cheers:
Brett B
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What a terrible thing to happen to such a great company.
I have heard so many great stories from people who have purchased Trackabout campers and things such as excellent service but unfortunately many companies dont have great service anymore.
The reason many companies are going bust is mainly due to all the chinese rubbish that is out on the market which is tearing australia apart.
Good luck with the future mate and hope to see you out on the tracks somewhere soon.
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All the best John.
Hope things get better for you in the future.
Regards
x 1
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The reason many companies are going bust is mainly due to all the chinese rubbish that is out on the market which is tearing australia apart.
Aint that the truth..Its not limited to just the camper trailer market though....thats the scary thing >:(
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Hi John, I'm really sorry to hear your news. I also am a small business owner and I unfortunately understand the immense pressure that comes with it. I haven't met you, but I did speak to you via pm on this forum and I remember telling you that we were also considering one of your (Australian made) competitors. Your reply was that your opposition also produced a high quality product which I found extremely refreshing. I wish you all the best in the future.
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Sorry everyone, :-[ >:( but while I sympathise with JT and wish him all the best, this post is fast proving the fault lies in people wanting everything cheap.
Come on. Get real. If we keep buying from overseas we'll go broke.
It doesn't take an economics grad to work out if you keep buying from someone else and not selling you'll soon run out of money.
This is only accelarated when you appoint a numpty leader who goes on spending sprees with other peoples money.
How much money are we spending on overseas aid when our own back yard is goingbroke???
Stop buying things cos they're cheap.............
Support Australia, buy Australian, employ Australian, use Australian.
Yes I know easy said, hard to do. I'm guilty. Very guilty in fact, but realistic.
The products (solar panels) I buy for work are all imported. I accept this flaw, but have to be realistic. I use an Australian owned imported, pay Aussies to work, and offset it by travelling locally, spending money on local economy and buying Australian wherever I can.
I buy a lot off evilbay, but choose Aus sellers wherever I can.
Albeit a little bit, I believe I'm trying. I have an Aldi up the road where I can buy stuff cheaper, but my local Franklins gets its produce and meat locally, so I support them.
Go on go buy something Aussie, you'll feel better.
Confession - I'm a migrant, but I came here to work, got a job, married a local, took the oath and live the life. God love this country......
Best wishes JT,
Brian
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Hey JT chin up old mate, you can hold your head high knowing you and your team have produced one the best ct in Australia.
Great ct and great service real down to earth bloke hope to catch you and your family some day cause your always welcome around my camp fire.
And it's a great feeling to have one of your trackabouts in my shed.
Thanks JT
:cheers:
Cam and Deb
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Look after yourself JT, get out and enjoy this great country. Sorry about the business (you and many others) but nothing is worth you health and family. All
The best, Wayne
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That is such a shame. Wish you all the best for the future.
I know that in our research for CT's we will ONLY be buying one of the Aust made model.
I noticed that in the ExplorOz thread that someone else was alluding that Lifestyle were possibly heading the same way.
I've emailed them for comment on this...and to jump on it if it is not correct....you don't want that to be alluded to if it is incorrect.
Especially since Lifestyle is still at the top of our "to buy" list!!
1st up...sorry to hear the bad news JT...and good luck for the future....
2nd...after having a Lifestyle on order, I read the thread on Explor Oz and couldn't find any reference to them at all...only a post from their marketing manager stating 2012 will be a year of expansion ????
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...after having a Lifestyle on order, I read the thread on Explor Oz and couldn't find any reference to them at all...only a post from their marketing manager stating 2012 will be a year of expansion ????
I thought the post from the Lifestyle guy was pretty poor form...
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I thought the post from the Lifestyle guy was pretty poor form...
X2
Im proud to have a trackabout and having meet and camped with JT he is one of the nicest blokes one would meet and loves a beer :cheers:
Good luck in the future JT hope it all goes better from here on in.
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JT - All the very best for the future mate...
Cheers
Grant
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Sorry to jump off topic but we recently bought a new lifestyle and we were told on numerous times by the management that they will be moving to a bigger building setup so just to let everyone know that they are NOT going down the gurgler
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I thought the post from the Lifestyle guy was pretty poor form...
x2
Isnt Lifestyle Campers a member on this forum?
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I thought the post from the Lifestyle guy was pretty poor form...
I disagree with that. He was responding to TheMightyMoose's comment that kind of implied that Lifestyle were also heading the same way.
I'd also rather see Trackabout's potential customers go to Lifestyle, Camel, whoever, that produce Australian made CT's rather than to the Chinese importers.
I started looking at the Chinese imports today (friend of mine bought one) but there is no way I'll even remotely consider that now.
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JT, Sorry to hear about the position you find yourself in both professionally and personally. You can hold your head high knowing your product is doing exactly as designed, and providing a lifestyle and memories for your customers. :cheers:
Peoples, Have a think back 12 months ago to the story of the unbreakable trackabout, In my opinion that looks even more generous now. :cup: :cup:
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Wow - I just can't believe what I'm reading!
We bought a trackabout because of the great campers that JT builds, and were pretty happy knowing that there were local staff being employed there. I was most impressed by the top shed where the canvas work is done - there were quite a few people working in there and I felt pretty good knowing that it wasn't an imported top, and that I could go back anytime to get repairs or extra bits made.
We love ours to bits mate - one of the best decisions we've ever made. Thanks for selling us such an excellent product! :)
We are sorry to hear of the circumstances John and hope that you and Raewyn can enjoy some great times together and hope you'll still be joining the crew at Sandy Creek in a few weeks :)
Take care,
Bryan
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JT,
Very sorry to here about your situation.
Here is hoping everything comes through for you personally and proffesionally.
Any body looking a t a sea change for a highly regarded camper trailer business??
Regards Chris
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Please, let's keep this on track and not get into a wee wee contest. This has nothing to do with any other camper trailer manufacturer. Be warned...... :police:
All the best for the future JT, you are a true champion who is widely respected within the Camper Trailer world and a true Champion of a bloke also. I tip my hat to you and the offer I made via PM stands without reservation. :cheers:
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John
I bought my first camper from you in 2003 and thus began Cairns Camper Hire. Over the years we have worked together with feedback from clients that took Trackabouts to the Cape. The best testing ground in Australia. I have watched the designs change over the years and with the feedback was proud to help in a small way see Trackabout establish it self as a leader in quality and reliability over the years.
I was even honored to be able to sell them and confident I was selling the best camper on the market due to the testing grounds of Cape York.
John , thank you for the mateship and friendship over the years and I wish you all the best in the future. I have a spot I can fit you in on this years Cape trip if you are available.
Regretfully this is just the beginning as I can see this continuing as price does not affect only johns business but other camper manufacturers. The goal posts have changed and as much as I would like to see everyone buy an Australian built camper , price is the big factor in our everyday decisions and will always be. We all would love to buy Australian products but this is not to be. Do not criticise those who cannot spend the big dollars, as you know they would like to, but if spending half the price to get out and explore this great country then We must accept this change, whether we like it or not!!!
I will always wear the Trackabout shirt with pride. All the best mate.
Mark
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People on this site only know the half of what JT has actually done for you all. I remember reading last year about the guy from the floods with a Trackabout camper which was picked up in the floods and carried down stream a couple of Km. He rang JT to see if he could fix it for him and he said sure but at no cost. Not only did he fix it but it was as good as new, well it was actually a brand new one that he gave him back . JT has been though some crap times and his heart is in the right place. I just wish him all the best with whatever he chooses to do in life now. Thank you for all you have done up till now.
I remember that as well, JT did an unreal thing there. And JT if you can make it to Sandy Ck and spend some time with old friends and new ones I am sure it will be good stress relief. Take can
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Hey, just to clarify the section you quoted: While I agree with the sentiment that JT has done his utmost and bent over backwards to help his customers and I'm very sorry to hear this news, the section you quoted was not written by me (see edits above) I can't delete the quote now so I just wanted to be transparent about the mix up.
Cheers!
Jono.
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That's good to see. What happened? Malicious flatmate?? I thought it was the ultimate troll post though!!
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John Have a rest mate you have earn't it.Nobody can tarnish your reputation. You have done well. Barnray
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Thats not good to here, hitch the camper on the cruiser and get out there.Good luck .
Very easy to see how a post on another forum can be misunderstood perhaps and read in a different way. I read the exploreoz post as a guy asking what other choices he had for good campers in QLD and the reply meant that lifestyle were "down that way" as in... sth east qld.
Maybe im wrong.....
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That's good to see. What happened? Malicious flatmate?? I thought it was the ultimate troll post though!!
No, I logged in to the site from a friend's computer a while back to check a thread when a bunch of our friends were around there for dinner. I forgot that 'log me in "for keeps" ' is the default setting.
So, when he heard the news (and he has good reason to feel strongly about Trackabout) he jumped straight on and posted.
I was actually alerted to it by another friend from that group who is a member and could tell that that's not how I write, nor how I sign off my posts.
Cheers!
Jono.
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Thats just real bad news!! ???
All the best Johnny to you and yours from here on in!!
Like others have said, you can certainly hold your head high. :cup:
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Well done for helping people enjoy the great outdoors for the past 10 years John, now it's your time to enjoy life and best wishes for whatever the future brings you.
Cheers bubba
Sent from my MB526 using Tapatalk
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JT,
Sorry to hear the news, this is a wake up call on a number of levels. Your were lucky enough to manufacture and create, not import, a product that Australians were proud to call theirs. It not every day a brand name and surname become one.
My family and I would like to thank you for your efforts in creating and building our Trackabout Safari, some of our happiest times have been had in and around her, she has quickly become our third born child! I for one am proud to own her. Thanks for that.
I'm sure you have a special model kept just for you, get out there and enjoy and I'm confident when I say, if you ever see a family in a Trackabout at one of our countries many wonderfull campsites please pop over, the drinks are on us.
Cheers,
Disco Teddy
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Any time your close to our place mate please be sure to stop in for a beer or two and a chat :cheers: .
We also had 4 of John's Trackabout campers in our hire business about 8 years ago, NEVER had one break, and the advice given to us by John was honest and sound, That's how I first met "THE MAN" that was and will always by Trackabout.
Hope you look at this as a change of lifestyle mate and we see more of you around the camp fire.
All the best
John & Julie K
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JT,
Jill and My thoughts are with You and Raewyn. This would not have been an easy choice to make. If you need anything just call, even if it's just to vent.
JT has been with Myswag.org from almost day one and has been our biggest contributed from a Camper Trailer Manufacture. I have had the pleasure of using a Trackabout for my Cape York trip in 2010, it's strength and quality shined through as we took the hard way every time. This is a huge loss for the Camper Trailer Industry and our Myswag.org Community.
Once this is all over JT I hope you stay with us here.
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JT,
All the best in a very difficult situation.
I sympathise with JT on the Tax Man's hard line. They are really playing hardball and with no mercy. They seem to be attacking small business like a rottweiler. A small business in trouble has the least resources to fight. Big business can it appears get away with murder and a deal.
I have been in a similar position with the Tax Man and the lack of any willingness on their part to negotiate was very disturbing to me. My file was passed onto a different officer who was willing to come to an arrangement that the previous officer was not inclined to. The file was "taken" back by the original officer who recanted the deal in progress and even said he was going to make an example of me! I cannot say the amount, but not a lot of money owed to the department.
The bragging that the department will put 800 to 900 businesses out of business A MONTH is a travesty. What is this going to do to our economy and unemployment figures? And that does not take into account the emotional toll on the owners and out of work staff. The department should be doing all in its power to help rebuild and save these businesses, keep the jobs and dollars in Australia and not be feeding the bank balances of the liquidators and lawyers (sorry if I have offended any on this forum).
Sorry for the soapbox, but JT's plight is close to my heart.
Tony.
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Sorry to hear the news JT, I did enjoy detouring to your showroom and dreaming about an extenda and did enjoy the few chats that we had. You said it was getting harder to compete with imports and the australian dollar would be making that harder with cheaper imports and higher australian costs.
Hopefully this is not the way we are heading but we have been dealing with foreign companies that have purchased queensland/australian assets and they are employing nearly all foreign staff and pretty well shafting australia, and with the governments blessing. short term gains for long term loss.
Anyhow enjoy your break, put your feet up and enjoy yourself for a while, lifes to short and you need to make the most of it and hopefully will see you at sandy creek.
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JT,
All the best in a very difficult situation.
I sympathise with JT on the Tax Man's hard line. They are really playing hardball and with no mercy. They seem to be attacking small business like a rottweiler. A small business in trouble has the least resources to fight. Big business can it appears get away with murder and a deal.
I have been in a similar position with the Tax Man and the lack of any willingness on their part to negotiate was very disturbing to me. My file was passed onto a different officer who was willing to come to an arrangement that the previous officer was not inclined to. The file was "taken" back by the original officer who recanted the deal in progress and even said he was going to make an example of me! I cannot say the amount, but not a lot of money owed to the department.
The bragging that the department will put 800 to 900 businesses out of business A MONTH is a travesty. What is this going to do to our economy and unemployment figures? And that does not take into account the emotional toll on the owners and out of work staff. The department should be doing all in its power to help rebuild and save these businesses, keep the jobs and dollars in Australia and not be feeding the bank balances of the liquidators and lawyers (sorry if I have offended any on this forum).
Sorry for the soapbox, but JT's plight is close to my heart.
Tony.
Tonym, I had to go outside for a moment to recover, now im back and fit to post, i couldnt agree with you more.
Having been there, done that, youre right on the money. The last thing I wanted to do was turn this post into a negative bitch session, but I have to add the following.
The side issues of GFC, Asian imports, etc, are just that, side issues. Having had the ATO into my wife and I for a few$ (less than 50k) because of business issues, I still cannot come to grips with their recovery at all costs atitude. It doesnt matter whatever the political persuasion you have, the ingrained "at all costs" attitude pervading this entity have eroded my confidence in the Aussie creed of a FAIR GO.
Its taken my family 5 years to get our heads financially above water because of the ATO, but we're nearly there. I just hope JT can move on and come out the other side and share a few :cheers: with all of us ASAP.
Mace
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I thought the post from the Lifestyle guy was pretty poor form...
On par I'd say....
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Sorry everyone, but while I sympathise with JT and wish him all the best, this post is fast proving the fault lies in people wanting everything cheap.
Come on. Get real. If we keep buying from overseas we'll go broke.
It doesn't take an economics grad to work out if you keep buying from someone else and not selling you'll soon run out of money.
This is only accelarated when you appoint a numpty leader who goes on spending sprees with other peoples money.
How much money are we spending on overseas aid when our own back yard is goingbroke???
Stop buying things cos they're cheap.............
Support Australia, buy Australian, employ Australian, use Australian.
Go on go buy something Aussie, you'll feel better.
Brian,
I fully support your statement above
buying 'cheap' is not the answer - buying 'quality' is the answer - BUY Australian made products
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Brian,
I fully support your statement above
buying 'cheap' is not the answer - buying 'quality' is the answer - BUY Australian made products
good in theory, but not everyone can afford the top quality Aussie made product. cheap doesn't mean poor quality
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All the best JT for the future, whatever you decide to do. You health is the most important thing in the world so in the words of Mr Spock.
"Live long & prosper, my friend."
I hope to see you out on the track somewhere.
All the best
Mark
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Johnny, take care mate good luck with every thing.
BD
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Thinking of you in what is obviously a very difficult time.
We are proud Trackabout owners and cannot thank you enough for the fantastic product and probably the best customer service we have ever received. You should be very proud of what you have achieved mate.
Look after yourself.
:cheers: Scott and Glenyse
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I'm sure, like many others, whilst I've seen him lounging around under an awning with Carlisle, Roothy et al in videos and magazines, I don't know Johnny and don't own a Trackabout (but they were on my shortlist - and I own a Complete Campsite now-another Aussie brand :angel:).
However I can tell from the comments on this site and from Johnny's own posts that he had a fantastic product and provided service and attention to his customers way beyond what most people would find acceptable in this country, which generally speaking has a 'don't give a toss about the customer' service ethos.
If a business with a great product, fantastic customer service and a pre-existing positive reputation can't succeed in this country we have no hope. Perhaps if Australians factored in quality and customer service alongside price to their purchasing decisions there'd be a chance, but that won't happen I fear.
Good luck John, stay healthy and best wishes to you, your family and your staff from another stranger.
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I am in shock!
Can't imagine the camper trailer world without any Trackabouts!
So very sorry John, to read of your plight, but as others have said, if it's affecting your health then it's time for a change, as hard as that might be. I remember while talking to you last year here in Cairns, you were so looking forward to getting away sometime in your own camper. Now's the time to do it! Imagine how many camp fires you can be sharing with all those tracky owners out there? "They're everywhere - they're everwhere" haha
Thank you for a magnificent camper and for being such a gentleman.
And thank you to your team for doing such an awesome job building these campers.
Looking forward to seeing you out there.
All the best,
Lester and Sharyn :cup: :cheers: :cheers:
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Hi Johnny,
Mate, I'm sorry this has happened to you, and I wish you well in the future with your health and endeavours.
Owning a camper trailer manufacturing business is difficult in all aspects, I know that we have constantly strived to build the best product and not the cheapest product, which I know you did the same. Its not only the product, its the marketing, camping shows, after hours calls and enquiries, research and development and time away from family.
John is absolutely correct regarding the Chinese products. We have customers come into our factory who have owned cheap Chinese campers and now they cant even sell them for half of what they paid. I have the same attitude even with our factory tools such as welders, hand drills, sewing machines, etc. We only use the best equipment but it never lets us down, just like our camper trailers.
Next time your in Albury John, drop in and say gedday.
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good in theory, but not everyone can afford the top quality Aussie made product.
cheap doesn't mean poor quality
Then I think we should buy an "Australian made" less expensive product ;D
Keep the money and the jobs in Australia, don't send it overseas, where will our grand kids work, if they get old enough ??
Take 'snatch straps' as an example, there are Australian made straps for about $60 with an 8,OOOkg rating
then at the other end of the scale there is the $19O model with the same 8,OOOkg rating, but they really do look nicer :-*
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good in theory, but not everyone can afford the top quality Aussie made product. cheap doesn't mean poor quality
But it usually does mean poor aftersales support, and poor resale value.
I think if people were more willing to sacrifice a few things they could easily be in the good gear rather than copies of the good gear, but that sort of attitude seemed to die out with the last generation.
Sorry to hear of this JT, Trackabout are at the top of my list as far as top level CTs go, and you've been a sterling ambassador for the industry in general. I hope the company survives for the sake of your team and to carry on the goodwill you established.
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Best of luck JT!
Cheers
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good luck for the future jt
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Very sorry to hear of your plight JT.
I could not believe it when I first read it yesterday.
Good luck with whatever you decide to do from now on, I am sure many manufacturers will be lining up for a man with your knowledge, reputation and experience.
But first take a long well deserved holiday.
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JT,
All the best in a very difficult situation.
I sympathise with JT on the Tax Man's hard line. They are really playing hardball and with no mercy. They seem to be attacking small business like a rottweiler. A small business in trouble has the least resources to fight. Big business can it appears get away with murder and a deal.
I have been in a similar position with the Tax Man and the lack of any willingness on their part to negotiate was very disturbing to me. My file was passed onto a different officer who was willing to come to an arrangement that the previous officer was not inclined to. The file was "taken" back by the original officer who recanted the deal in progress and even said he was going to make an example of me! I cannot say the amount, but not a lot of money owed to the department.
The bragging that the department will put 800 to 900 businesses out of business A MONTH is a travesty. What is this going to do to our economy and unemployment figures? And that does not take into account the emotional toll on the owners and out of work staff. The department should be doing all in its power to help rebuild and save these businesses, keep the jobs and dollars in Australia and not be feeding the bank balances of the liquidators and lawyers
well said.
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Congrats on your 1000th post Johnno :cup: :cheers: , wish it was on a happier note but please make sure it's not your last mate ;D
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So so easy to say buy Australian made and manufactured , just have a look from where your sitting , how many things including what you'l type your reply on are actualy made in Australia or even if made here are an Australian owned company , sweet fa and we all let it happen , who's to blame ? We ALL are because we all want high wages and cheap [price wise] goods.
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This is sad news for Australian small businesses, and especially for John and Rae and all the team at Trackabout.
Through my chats with John, one thing that stood out was how proud he was that they did all the work onsite at Moss St, with Australian workers. He rallied against some other manufacturers who advertised "Australian Made", but in reality simply assembled imported bits and pieces or used low-cost labour to save a few bob. JT was very passionate about giving young people a shot, and teaching them skills that they would be able to use for the rest of their lives. He was keen to use the best Australian products, and consequently end up with one of the best, no-gimmicks campers you could buy (and an addiction to Bling).
For the new members, here's the Indestructible Trackabout story that Singo mentioned:
http://myswag.org/forum/index.php?topic=11341 (http://myswag.org/forum/index.php?topic=11341)
Just one of the things that JT would do behind the scenes for the local community, things that most of us would never hear about.
It's a terribly hard decision to have to make, and I hope it works out for John and Rae. As everyone else has already said, hopefully once this is all over you guys can kick things down a gear and enjoy life.
I'm a proud Trackabout owner, and will continue to be.
Cheers,
Matto
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UHxxC9nPOdU/TMU4RNGBBqI/AAAAAAAAQeo/ITjv_oTZgTs/s640/PA250015.JPG)
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So so easy to say buy Australian made and manufactured , just have a look from where your sitting , how many things including what you'l type your reply on are actualy made in Australia or even if made here are an Australian owned company , sweet fa and we all let it happen , who's to blame ? We ALL are because we all want high wages and cheap [price wise] goods.
Sadly all true. Who knows the answer? It was the same when the Japanese goods hit the market in the 60's. The sad thing is that no matter where you go there seems to be too many shops selling the same things, too many wineries trying to make it in a small market etc. etc. and if you visit the camping shows there seems to be too many manufacturers making the same campers, caravans and motorhomes.
What can we do? Stop selling our Iron Ore to the Chinese. That will teach them to flood our market with cheap goods! Maybe they will then buy all the hotels we sold to the Japanese and Singaporeans that cover good food growing land in QLD.
The other situation at the moment is the plight of the car industry. How many of us use an Australian made tow vehicle to move our campers? Not many I'll bet. Not that long ago you could see no end of Holdens and Falcons towing the family caravan for the big holiday every year.
I don't think things will get any better until we get better ourselves.
Time for a bex and a good lie down!!
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Not good news John ... Best of luck with the future .
Having been there myself ( maybe not on your scale ) .. best advice I could give ... Don't look back - keep looking forward .
Cheers Jim
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Really sad news mate i too as have probably quite a few members here been in this predicament. Probably just varying in scales. I will in 2 weeks pay my last ever payment to the tax department. Unfortunately though this cost the jobs of all that worked for me just because the ato wanted to play hardball.
On the upside a job that pays holidays super etc is so much less stress and both me and my family are reaping the benifits now. When one door closes another always opens just follow it and see what that room has to offer.
Good Luck mate I hope someone else can now pay for your adventures.
Eddy
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Hi guys and ladies
Thanks heaps for your kind comments about John and Trackabout. He feels really touched by the support shown here on MySwag. I don't personally know all of you - I've had the pleasure of sharing drinks with many, but not all - but your comments are very moving.
We are not sure what the outcome will be, but are hoping that someone with a few dollars in their pocket sees the sense in picking up the Trackabout brand name and the goodwill which so obviously exists, and builds the business back up.
One of the hardest things for John was last Friday when he had to let the staff go and hand over to the administrator, who by the way is a nice guy, just with a tough job. I know it's a hard thing to let one staff member go, but to have to lay everyone off, especially in this economic climate, was heart wrenching.
Reading through this thread I see a lot of proud Australians, which is great. However, times are changing and all advanced manufacturing in Australia is under threat. Maybe the ultimate outcome will be that we need to develop a new industry altogether and leave the manufacturing to countries where they can do it low cost. Just saying ....
I keep telling John to look forward, not back. But its tough for someone who has worked for himself for 27 years. He has eaten, breathed and slept Trackabout for the past ten years. Cliches like 'every cloud has a silver lining' and 'when one door closes another opens' are quite appropriate right now and what is getting him through. I am a big believer in things happening for a reason and having watched the stress that John has gone through the past 18 months and watched his health deteriorating, I think this could be a good time for a change. Together we will pick up the pieces and move forward, because that's what we do!
Again, thanks to everyone for their kind words. See you on the tracks
Raewyn
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All the best to you and your family's future John.
From a proud and satisfied Trackabout owner..
Regards
Ian & Melissa Lawson.
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JT,
They seem to be attacking small business like a rottweiler. A small business in trouble has the least resources to fight. Big business can it appears get away with murder and a deal.
Perhaps thats the perception but not the reality. BIL worked for tax a little while ago and presented a huge business down here with a tax bill for 1.2million payable in 30days with interest at about 10trillion percent a day for non payment. The business owner was not nice so some just desserts :)
Best of luck JT
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We bought our Trackabout from John back in 2002, a top camper from a top bloke. I find this news hard to believe, and wish JT all the best for the future.
Hopefully this may make us all think more about supporting Aussie businesses and not just buying the cheapest product. Quality will always be evident in the end.
Good luck for the future JT
John & Penny
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JT,
In a fight We often foucus on the result and in this case it is a very hard and sad one, BUT the real story lies in the fight.
You stood firm and held your ground against a constant and unrelenting adversory ,the GFC ,the Chinese invasion the dog headed ATO.
Your love of the industry and your country showed through ,you refused to become what you did not belive in .
You now stand brusied and bloody my friend ,
HOWEVER what you kept is more important than what you lost .
You kept yourself !
Your a man of conviction and a man of true strength ,when the chips were down you stood tall and never gave in. You fought to the very end and for that you have earned my respect and by the posts I've just read the respect of an entire community.
Now wear those black eyes with pride mate ,because there is no shame in the battle you just fought on behalf of all Australians.
Kindest regards and respect
Jetcrew ;D ;D
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Here here Jetcrew...
LJ
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Here here Jetcrew...
+1 to that.
Nice work Jetcrew. "You refused to become what you did not believe in". I like that.
Matto :)
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Very well said Jetcrew.
We are also very sad to hear this news, having been proud Trackabout owners for a year. After looking at campers for a long time, we decided on a Trackabout after 5 minutes in JT's showroom for the reasons that many others here have pointed out.
JT, thanks to you and your team for creating a camper above and beyond our expectations. We knew it would be good, but were still surprised at how good it was! You should be proud of what you have given all of us, and also your relentless efforts to "stay Australian", with a quality second to none. :cup:
We have been proud to tell anyone about our Trackabout, and will continue to tow it around with pride.
All the best to you and your family, and your staff for the future.
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Great post Jetcrew and so true.
John and Raewyn you can stand proud of your achievements and contributions to the camper trailer industry and i'm sure you will have a well enjoyed rest ahead of you and that doors will open for you. All the very best for the future.
Regards
Robbo
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Hi JT, whilst I don't have one of your trailers I did speak to you early on before I decided to build my own (using as much Aussie stuff as possible). You impressed me with your attitude and willingness to help out with ideas. I've also been really impressed with the way you obviously take pride in yoru work and go that extra distance for your customers both new and old.
Wish you all the best.
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Great post Jetcrew!!!!
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Nice words from Raewyn - behind every GOOD man is a GOOD wife!! Good luck with whatever the future brings
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I was shocked when I heard the news about Trackabout and very sad when I read JT's post. And, I'll admit that I have just teared up after reading Raewyn's post :'( The ATO is headhunting on the Federal Governments behest and getting a budget surplus is more important than supporting Australian manufacturing. I own a Trackabout camper and have taken it to some great places without one thing going wrong with it. As we are only two oldies now I had thought of purchasing a smaller camper, but still a full Australian made one. But bugger that now. I will be keeping my Trackabout and will happily promote a great Aussie brand and I hope that someone will pick up the company and keep it going. I have met John a few times at shows over the years and can't say a bad word about him. It is a very sad day for us as Australians when a government department forces small business to close down, rather than come to an arrangement to keep them going. Very nice words Jetcrew too.
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I think I will buy a lotto ticket this weekend in aid of keeping Trackabout afloat after all I have a vested interest as I own one.
Maybe we could have a mass lotto effort from Myswag members!!!!
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I think I will buy a lotto ticket this weekend in aid of keeping Trackabout afloat after all I have a vested interest as I own one.
Maybe we could have a mass lotto effort from Myswag members!!!!
Great idea Noel
It saddens me to here the news JT and Raewyn. Another great Australian company at risk of disappearing
I couldn't afford one of your campers - but oh how I wanted one.
I hope that you get through this terrible time with minimal emotional and physical damage. And that you can find a space in life where you can gain the enjoyment you guys so obviously deserve.
Cheers
Nick
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I flew up to Brisbane in Nov to meet John and his team at Trackabout. He picked me up at the airport and drove me to Slacks Creek where he showed me around his premises and all his Trailers. I had already pretty much decided on Trackabout after reading magazines and this forum for the last two years, but that day just comfirmed it for me. I found John to be very easy to chat to, very easy going and generally just a good all round guy, I liked him and easily imagined him to be the sort of guy who I could easily sit around a camp fire having a good laugh and drinking too many beers! At the end of the day I flew home to Victoria, confident in my heart I had made the right decision.
On Jan 18th I set off for Brisbane to pick up my new Trackabout Extenda from John, On arriving at Trackabout on the lunchtime of the Friday the 20th Francis told me he was not there unfortunately, and had not been too well that week, I got the Impression things were not good. None the less Francis and the other guys (sorry I have forgot there names) done a great job in running through everything on the trailer, these were a great bunch of guys who had worked and built my Trailer. Francis also was brilliant to deal with, so even though JT was not there, they were all doing there bit in keeping the Trackabout flag flying so to speak. I was disappointed that JT was not there as I had been looking forward to having a couple of beers with him to celebrate the handover of my trailer, In the end I was there for a couple of hours and did have a few beers with the boys who worked there.
I left Brisbane on the Sat lunchtime and ended up getting home on the Mon arvo, Tuesday I had an appointment with VicRoads, getting the CT all registered and plated before heading off to Dargo in the High Country for 6 days over the Australia day weekend. Here my wife and I and our two young children had a great time next ot the Wonnagatta River with our new CT, they all loved it!!
So it was with great shock and sadness that I learnt that Trackabout had gone into Voluntary receivership on the 27th.
I only met John the once, yet I feel 'Jetcrew' you summed up JT perfectly, and everything he stood for and believed in. I am so proud to have bought a Trackabout and of the quality of the build, the passion and care that went into it. I hope that the Trackabout name does continue, I wish all of the staff at Trackabout the best for the future, and of course to the big man himself, I hope he is back on his feet soon.
Regards, Col. (Proud Trackabout Camper Trailer Owner) :cheers:
PS Apologies if this thread rambled on a bit....
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Johnny and Rae,
I am heartbroken by your terrible news. We wish you all the very best with your new ventures, after a well earned break.
My affiliation with Trackabout started in 2007 with the purchase our Deluxe Tourer. I then joined the sales team and worked both with the great Man himself and Frances for close to 2 years, before venturing off to the other side of Australia, as Trackabout's only WA dealer. JT, thank you for the opportunities for working for such a great company, and producing such a fantastic tough head turning product.
You and Trackabout will be sadly missed from the industry and the Moss St landscape.
the Nurse and Davo69 (aka Tammy and Dave)
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So sorry to hear this news. We bought our Safari SV last year and are very happy customers. John's great service was what convinced us to buy, even though we had never seen one set up. I hope things work out ok
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Very sad news JT best of luck with the future mate, your health should be the most important thing so you cann get out there and enjoy.
Neil
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I can't believe it. I'm in shock.
Just come back from a wonderful holiday in the heavenly Trackabout and I'm truly stunned.
During our holiday one of our friends said we will always have good resale value on our Trackabout due to the quality of the product and I thought at the time there's no way I'm giving away this camper and ain't that the truth now. I absolutely love it and it has changed our lives. We have the best time because we are so comfortable, we never have to worry about anything going wrong, we just love it so much. We have had more holidays now than we ever had before when we were tent camping. We researched for 2 years before purchasing our Deluxe and we have never regretted it for one moment.
I have to admit a tear did come to my eye for the plight JT is in and hope for him that his product continues on. I definitely agree with all, that now is the time to get out there and be stress free and enjoy what this beautiful country has to offer. Just like JT's product- all Australian, Australia is the place to travel.
Thinking of you both
Louise & James. :'( :'(
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Very sad to hear that another great Australian company is going under.
Unfortunately as stated many times before people are just looking for a bargain and if it means buying a cheap Chinese made camper
which won't last more then 5yrs so be it. Even Aussie made trailer or so claimed to be with a Chinese/Indian canvas is what a lot of companies
are started to do which is smart business for them but sad for the consumers who are getting a sub standard product.
I looked at a lot of those sort of companies CT's and ended up buying a completely West Aussie made trailer and Australian canvas, yes it cost me
about $3500 more then what i wanted to spend but I know it will still be going strong in 12yrs time. :cup:
Buy AUSTRALIAN MADE and keep the profits in this great country. :police:
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So sad to hear of this JT & Rae,
As a small business owner I hear what you say (be carefull in small business with this government). I also hear you loud and clearly about buying Australian where you can. Although I bought mine from a business opponent of yours I needed to know that it was truley manufactured here. Not having Trackabout around to challenge my choice saddens me immensly.
Look after yourselves, good health for the future!
Mark
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Just read this news, and like everyone else am saddened by the situation.
Very sad that in the global economy we now live in, that great local businesses suffer.
To John and Raewyn, all the best, I know you guys will get through and come out the other side. I hope you still have the pic of the camper and my 4Runner up to the axles in mud; makes me smile every time I see it, and hope it reminds you of the pleasure and joy you've given to hundreds of Aussies with your product.
Trackabout have produced a high quality product for many years, and my 2004 Safari, still going strong, is living proof of your legacy.
Spread the word people, and support Australian businesses, because they are part of our family.
Regards
Tony Ellery
Another proud Trackabout owner.
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Best wishes for the future mate . Even though I didn't buy your product I couldn't help but be impressed with your passion that day you took time out to show me through you workshop. Just loved the old comp truck you had in the shed too. I hope your return to good health is quick.
Cheers
Gary
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Reality hit real hard when I saw an ad in the Courier Mail on Saturday for the sale of the Trackabout business. Had to sit down for a few moments to reflect on this and hope it all goes well for JT, Raewyn and crew.
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Reality hit real hard when I saw an ad in the Courier Mail on Saturday for the sale of the Trackabout business. Had to sit down for a few moments to reflect on this and hope it all goes well for JT, Raewyn and crew.
Let's just hope whoever buys it keep JT's dream alive!!!!............... Big shoes to fill, but surely there is someone else out there with the funds and more importantly the passion to keep the Trackabout name at the top of the Aussie CT list.
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Very sad to hear the news - couldn't believe this would happen to such a great business putting out a real quality product and run by a genuinely top bunch of people. Hopefully the business will be picked up and carried on by another aussie worthy of JT and the team's big shoes.
Best wishes for the future,
Mark & Kathryn Latal - proud Trackabout owners
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Reality hit real hard when I saw an ad in the Courier Mail on Saturday for the sale of the Trackabout business. Had to sit down for a few moments to reflect on this and hope it all goes well for JT, Raewyn and crew.
Noel
I was the same. I still can't believe it. I feel like I am mourning for something I never really had anything to do with, other than get a quick quote from John late last year.
Cheers
Grant
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I own a TRACKABOUT camper and every time I set it up I am very proud to have one of the best soft floor campers made. John and Raewyn thank you for build such a great product. All the best for what ever you both have in mind.
Cheers duggie. GO THE TRACKABOUT :cup:
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All,
Love the fact that there are so many Trackabout supporters out there. Me, we bought a unit that John called his own and featured heavily in the CT mags of Sept 2010. It is a cracker and we love it. Desperately sorry to here of the demise of the business and particularly that John's health has suffered.
I called the administrators office as I was keen to know what arrangements were being made to support the existing owners in terms of repairs to components, canvas etc. Is there a recommendation of who to use.
No call back 48 hours later. Doors are locked. So before to much time goes by are there any recommendations from anyone that we might seek out in time to come.
My parting comment is that if you are looking for a CT or anything for that matter consider buying from home, whether it be in the supermarket or a luxury item support specialists in the industry of choice, before we have no specialists left. We are selling out this country at a rate of knots.
Regards to all with special mention to JT and Family
Rob W
Forestlake
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Rob,
Give Warren and Cherie a call at Ozki Canvas. They are located near the top of Moss Street, Slacks Creek.
Warren is clued up on the Trackabout canvas, as he was a tent sewer for them about 5 years ago, before starting his own business.
Hope this helps.
the Nurse
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I know JT has asked for time and space, but has anyone spoken to him, or his missus to see how he is going?
Hate for him to be going thru it all on his own, the pressure and stress would be too much for one bloke.
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Can't believe it, what a tragedy. All those great people at Trackabout were awesome, JT, Francis, Lakas etc. We bought our safari extenda last year and it is the best. Johnny was talking about the future model planned for the end of this year and we were gonna upgrade, it sounded spectacular. What a bloody shame, a legend company, and a legend product. We'll have ours for years to come.
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I know JT has asked for time and space, but has anyone spoken to him, or his missus to see how he is going?
Had a quick chat to the big fella last night actually. They're going as well as can be expected. It's a rough time for both John and Rae, dealing with the administrators and having to decide what the next moves are. From what little I understand, the process is all progressing through the motions, it's just consuming a lot of John's time.
JT has been keeping an eye on this thread despite not posting, and the groundswell of support has meant a lot to him. It's great to see so many people - previous customers, potential future customers and competitors alike - all lending their support.
Please don't underestimate what this means to John and Rae. They're a great team, they've got each other, as well as the best mate a bloke can have - a Border Collie (but I might be biased there ;D).
Thanks,
Matto :)
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Thanks for the update Matto :cheers:
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I felt compelled to add my best wishes to JT and his family.
You have been a great support to countless people on this forum, even just by posting tips and pics, your contribution is outstanding.
If there is EVER anything this group can do for you, I know I for one would jump at the chance.
Nick.
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Had a quick chat to the big fella last night actually. They're going as well as can be expected. It's a rough time for both John and Rae, dealing with the administrators and having to decide what the next moves are. From what little I understand, the process is all progressing through the motions, it's just consuming a lot of John's time.
JT has been keeping an eye on this thread despite not posting, and the groundswell of support has meant a lot to him. It's great to see so many people - previous customers, potential future customers and competitors alike - all lending their support.
Sweet...
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Sweet...
X2
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Hi Everyone
Whilst I sympathise with Trackabouts owners (JT & Rae), and hope they come through the process with their health and sanity, I wish to raise a point - and please understand that this is not a criticism personally on the owners.
When we hear that "My business failed due to the GFC and Cheap Imports" we need to consider more factors. The GFC is not new, occurring for the most part from 2008 onwards, banks tightened up, consumer sentiment fell, and as pointed out by the owner, people weren't considering luxury items - at least in the same volume as before.
This strikes me as an inability (whether forced or otherwise) to change gear, change tact or otherwise mould new business plans. Perhaps some trailers could have been heavily de-specced, ranging could have involved tent/canvas products separate from the trailers, camper gear or niche camping items that Aussies buy (heated showers, fully wired electrical boards for plug and play into existing trailers). Perhaps service around 'fixing' and up-speccing the cheap Chinese imports - i.e. Bought an eBay Camper? Need some help/extras/repairs? - whilst these strategies probably ran at a tangent from the Owners original business plans - all things need to be considered in a tough retail environment.
Any number of these these things could have been considered - with the main aim of the game being to get back to the Luxury supply of Campers at a future date - which will happen eventually. Its the same argument that Gerry Harvey extols about people buying overseas because they don't have to pay the GST - which is rubbish - because like many here - if my local retailer/trader can get to within 25-30% of an internet price, I'm more than happy to keep the cash local - simple fact is for many technical items they either can't or won't - and thus the money is spent elsewhere.
This is where service based mentalities are lacking in Australia - and whilst the Owner from all reports had excellent customer service skills, sadly many do not. Walk into your local motorcycle establishment, and get treated like a nupty by a 16yo with no product knowledge and a suite of products retailing at 200% margin...what do they expect.
My point is, for Australian suppliers/retailers/traders to remain competitive in the global market, without the assistance of subsidies or tariffs, they must evolve with the customer, who is infinitely more savvy - than even 10 years ago, and sadly - approaching the market with a 10 year old business plan, is likely to have only one, sad result.
My best wishes to the Owners, it is sad to see good Aussie businesses hit the wall. We as Consumers have the power to ask for, or even demand service and niche technical services, solutions and products - if the retailer doesn't know - then it is our duty as Consumers to ensure they are informed.
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Walk into your local motorcycle establishment, and get treated like a nupty by a 16yo with no product knowledge and a suite of products retailing at 200% margin...what do they expect.
I can tell you it isnt the dealers making the money in motorcycle shops.
My old boss closed his doors to the sales and spares in December after 35years in the 1 building... very well known store in the area.
Steve now has a factory down the road and only does servicing of bikes which is the one thing you cannot get off the interwebs..
But then theres tyres, which brings its own issues. people bring in tyres expecting free fitting cause they bought them in the USA... some get really offended when he says to **** off elsewhere with free fitting on tyres bought overseas...
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Hi l0ckym,
Welcome to the forum :)
Let's not turn this into a "he should have done this" thread, but John had been trying and testing other avenues over the past few years.
When we were buying ours he had a Trackabout built gal trailer with an OzTrail top in the showroom. He was asking $6500 for it. It was a pretty good setup, but he couldn't sell it! Everyone who comes to Trackabout isn't looking to buy a cheap/import camper - they expect to see a well built, Aussie trailer that they can customise to their needs.
As for fixing up cheap eBay campers - is that really a sustainable business model?
I agree that businesses need to diversify in the current market, but at what cost? As soon as you are seen to be selling imported gear, the brand you've been building for 10 years goes out the window. Ultimately it's come at a high cost to JT, but he can hold his head high and be proud to have built the company that he did.
Let's not forget that there could have also been external pressures that affected the health of the business back in 2008-9, and our commentary on his ability to run a business is probably insulting :)
Cheers,
Bryan
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Hi l0ckym,
Welcome to the forum :)
Let's not turn this into a "he should have done this" thread, but John had been trying and testing other avenues over the past few years.
When we were buying ours he had a Trackabout built gal trailer with an OzTrail top in the showroom. He was asking $6500 for it. It was a pretty good setup, but he couldn't sell it! Everyone who comes to Trackabout isn't looking to buy a cheap/import camper - they expect to see a well built, Aussie trailer that they can customise to their needs.
As for fixing up cheap eBay campers - is there really that really a sustainable business model?
I agree that businesses need to diversify in the current market, but at what cost? As soon as you are seen to be selling imported gear, the brand you've been building for 10 years goes out the window. Ultimately it's come at a high cost to JT, but he can hold his head high and be proud to have built the company that he did.
Let's not forget that there could have also been external pressures that affected the health of the business back in 2008-9, and our commentary on his ability to run a business is probably insulting :)
Cheers,
Bryan
x 2, well said.
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X3.
This is not the time to speculate or to suggest that you may have been better qualified than those involved to survive this outcome. Reading between the lines it might be seen as "blowing of one's own trumpet" but let's not go there.
I never had the chance to deal with JT but from all reports there seems that there was nobody out there more commited to satisfying his customers needs than he and his staff. I read with interest how he rebuilt the trailer that was smashed up in the floods last year. I thought then that if I get a camper and the budget allows I'll be getting one of them. Some synics may suggest that it was a marketing ploy but I felt it was much more than that.
Knowing now that John and Rae are keeping an eye on this thread I would like to extend my thoughts and best wishes to them both. If the responses on this forum mean anything then you both know that you never let anybody down and that for every customer you had you also gained a friend. Take comfort in that.
Good luck in the future.
Ken
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X4
We were fortunate to have been able to sell our business 12 years ago, albeit at a loss.
It cost us our home and almost our marriage. Luckily we didn't become bankrupts, but it did takes us well over 5 years to feel as if we had turned the corner. We are more cautious with our money than before and try and make decisions with our head rather than with our heart
We believe as one door closes another door open. You make the best out of whatever life delivers.
Hopefully JT and Rae will come through the process with dignity knowing that they tried their best and have many, many happy customers. No doubt they will wonder "what if", but as each day, week, month passes they will focus on the future and not dwell on the past.
My fear is that someone will buy the "Trackabout" name and unsuspecting new customers don't get the quality product that JT manufactured.
Whilst I've never met JT or Rae the high regard that they are held in by this forum speaks volumes.
If our paths cross, I would be honoured to be able to shout you a beer, as long as it isn't that XXXX stuff.
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My fear is that someone will buy the "Trackabout" name and unsuspecting new customers don't get the quality product that JT manufactured.
yeah and if that happens, watch the value of the old ones go through the roof, a la trakshak and camp-o-matic.
btw a lot of the staff at trackabout were ex camp-o-matic workers, hope they find new jobs real quick.
Would love to know where they go in case mine needs fixin' at any stage. Maybe we could be updated about that on here.
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X3.
This is not the time to speculate or to suggest that you may have been better qualified than those involved to survive this outcome. Reading between the lines it might be seen as "blowing of one's own trumpet" but let's not go there.
What a ridiculous post ::)
(not yours Ken! but the one that you were referring to)
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"It is not the critic that counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or the doer of deeds could have done them better.
The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the Arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but he who does actually strive to do the deed ; who knows the great devotion; who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achivement, and who at the worst, if he fails while daring greatley, knows that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls, who know neither victory or defeat."
Theodore Roosevelt (1858 - 1919) 26th US president.
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JT,
Been there. Don't look in the mirror at dust behind you, look ahead at the road in front.
Bought your trailer in 2009. Seen some rough tracks. Dam thing keeps coming back for more!
All the best.
Cheers Mate
Greg
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time to lock this thread?
Its turning to Shit.
the original question has been answered.
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As a proud owner of a recently purchased Safari Extenda, I was saddened to hear of your doors closing JT. Rest assured that if you are ever on the Sunshine Coast there will always be a cold beer available. Your service and product was such a high standard it was a pleasure to do business with you.
My wife, family and myself wish your family the best in your next adventure. To all your employees my thoughts are with you. Thanks again for a great product and rest assured it will be enjoyed for many years to come.
Cheers Mark :cheers:
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time to lock this thread?
Its turning to ****.
the original question has been answered.
Definitely not, want to hear what's happening with trackabout, as I own one which is still under warranty. And this thread is perfect for that. Don't close it, just keep on topic.
It's not the place for people to get on their soapboxes like that one post above that everyone's reacting to. Don't feed the trolls.
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time to lock this thread?
Its turning to ****.
the original question has been answered.
x2
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Don't feed the trolls.
Sadly, I don't think he was 'trolling' :(
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There are 137 Trackabout owners on this site and I'm sure we all want to know what's happening.
No getting on soapboxes or endless rants, just the facts please. :police:
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sad to hear such a good product and company having trouble.i think selling his comp truck was a sign that it wasnt all good and they were trying to do the right thing.
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There are 137 Trackabout owners on this site and I'm sure we all want to know what's happening.
Mate there are about 2863 NON Trackabout owners on this site, if you don't know what's happening by now you never will.
Sorry, not trying to start a flame war
cheers Keith
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Without starting anything ... maybe a good idea to assume nothing
At the end of the day , it is no-ones business except for John & Rae .
sad to hear such a good product and company having trouble.i think selling his comp truck was a sign that it wasnt all good and they were trying to do the right thing.
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Without starting anything ... maybe a good idea to assume nothing
At the end of the day , it is no-ones business except for John & Rae .
Yep....... what Rockman said..........
Stay well.
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Mate there are about 2863 NON Trackabout owners on this site, if you don't know what's happening by now you never will.
Sorry, not trying to start a flame war
cheers Keith
must... ignore... trolll...
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It is time....
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This thread has run its course, all over the place. Time to put it down and move on.