A Quick Guide to Motorhome Fun Rallies
We’ve noticed quite a few new Funsters joining our meets and rallies, some perhaps wondering what they’ve signed up for, and others still building up the courage to book their first event. To ease your mind—or perhaps scare you away forever—here’s a clear rundown of what to expect.
Booking and Arrival
- You must be a subscriber to attend a Fun rally.
- Each rally has its own thread in our rally section, where you can express interest or ask questions. You can also view upcoming events on the Rally Calendar.
- Rally threads will include location, arrival times, and key details. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—the rally marshal and community members are always ready to help.
Pre-Rally Details
- Some rallies require you to fill out a quick form with details such as motorhome registration, number of attendees, expected arrival time, and sometimes names for badges. This helps marshals manage arrivals efficiently.
- Don’t worry about exact timings—being a bit early or late isn’t an issue.
Costs and Fees
- Unlike many clubs, we rarely charge extra rally fees. Our marshals are volunteers who generously organize these events.
Arrival and Setup
- Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and briefed by the rally marshal, who will either hand out a welcome letter or provide details verbally.
- If badges have been prepared, you’ll receive them at this point.
- Someone will guide you to your spot, always ensuring at least 6 metres distance from your neighbours. The marshal will introduce you to those parked nearby.
- Participation in events is completely voluntary—no one will pressure you to join in, but making the effort usually makes the experience more rewarding.
Typical Rally Events
- Events often have themes (e.g., Bring and Buy, New Year’s Eve), but participation is never compulsory. Feel free to join in as much or as little as you like.
Coffee and Cake Gatherings
- A regular rally feature is “Coffee and Cake,” where the marshal provides cake and attendees bring their own coffee. Often, participants contribute additional cakes and donations may be collected to cover costs. Arrive hungry!
Barbecues
- BBQs are communal events where attendees prepare food to share. Expect plenty of delicious dishes—again, it’s best to show up hungry!
Evening Gatherings
- Evenings usually involve informal gatherings in a central area (often under canvas except in summer). Bring your drink of choice and enjoy relaxed chats. Sometimes music or spontaneous singing adds to the fun. If entertainment is provided at larger show rallies, attending remains completely optional.
Getting the Most from Your Rally
It’s important to make a little effort to engage. A quick story highlights why:
True story..
A few years ago someone claimed that they did not have a good time at a rally and thought they were ignored. I was devastated, so were the rally marshals. On arrival, they had received a note from the marshals, letting them know what was happening that weekend, but somehow chose not to attend anything.
When questioned……Did you not attend the evening in the Marquee? “no, we were tired and my wife had a migraine” How about the coffee morning did you attend that? “No, we are not coffee drinkers and wanted to visit the town at that time” How about the bacon rolls, did you not chat to people over breakfast? “No, we’re vegetarians so we didn’t want to come over”
So essentially, this couple stayed in their van and made no effort to join in, but then thought they were being ignored.
What they failed to appreciate is that because we are not a pushy club, insisting that everyone joins in with everything, we’re quite happy to let you sit in your van. No one is going to disturb you and ask if you are coming to the coffee morning. So do get out, and chat to each other. Funsters are very friendly and as you make new friends, you won’t regret making the effort.