Mr Wilckens: Everyone can learn

'Beware of being isolated'

THE Caravan Industry Association of Australia's new chairman has stressed the importance of conferences.

Grant Wilckens emphasises that no matter how experienced people are at their businesses, "everyone can learn".

"Working in a small or large business venture can often be isolating," he warned.

"Without exposure to a variety of points of view, we can miss new ideas and trends that can impact future results.

"The educational aspect of a conference can expose you to new ways of conducting your business and help you discover what matters to you to ensure your ongoing success in business."

Mr Wilckens, Discovery Parks chief executive and co-founder, was speaking ahead of the association's national conference, to be held at the Gold Coast's Star Hotel and Casino from May 16 to 18.

"The educational aspect of a conference can expose you to new ways of conducting your business and help you discover what matters to you to ensure your ongoing success in business," he said.

The caravanning and camping industry had enjoyed a strong resurgence in recent years, with both manufacturing and visitor nights recording strong growth from both domestic and international markets.

"While our industry has a long and prosperous history in Australia, we must unite and work towards common goals to ensure our businesses remain profitable and stay relevant to our customers," he said.

"This past 12 months the industry has seen significant change and I am sure the next 12 months will be similar.

"With so much disruption the voice of the customer has never been louder, and we must listen to feedback, adapt and innovate to ensure we exceed consumer expectations and improve profitability across the industry."

Mr Wilckens said the Caravan Industry Association of Australia's national conference was in its 23rd year and was firmly established as the premier national educational and networking event for the industry.

It had grown from "strength to strength in line with the opportunities offered within our wonderful industry", he added.

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