WHO– The Millers – John, Shelbee, Korbin and Lakey
VAN – Jayco Journey 19.61-3 Outback Caravan
WHERE– Mount Seaview Retreat
This was our 3rd farmstay in as many weeks and we had found our groove, packing all the right things for another fun filled weekend off grid with Jayco Newcastle staff and customers.
Nestled in the heart of New South Wales, Mount Seaview is a breathtaking destination four hours north of Newcastle. As we drove down the driveway, we were greeted with endless mountain views and a campsite right on the river.
After setting up, everyone headed to the camp kitchen and restaurant, where Ralph, who runs Mt Seaview resort and 4WD adventure tours, gave a great rundown of the numerous 4WD tours planned for the weekend. The camp kitchen area was the perfect place to settle in for the afternoon, and the dinner at the restaurant was delicious – a bit like having nans cooking on a Sunday night.
On Saturday morning, everyone woke up to the sound of the running river and got prepared for the 4WD tour with Ralph. The tour started at 9 am sharp, and Ralph shared stories of the land and how Mt Seaview became Mt Seaview. The tour included several stops to appreciate the scenery, but there were a few leeches to be cautious of, especially for the little ones.
The tour continued through the mountain ranges and ended with a long descent with amazing views over the mountains. The tour was rated a 5 out of 10, and even those with non-adventurous hearts had a few beats skipped. However, Korbin (6) and Lakey (3) wanted to do it all over again.
After the tour, everyone cooled off in the running river, which had dropped a few degrees after the recent rain. That didn’t stop the kids though of course!! A slow afternoon was spent enjoying nature’s playground before heading up to the camp kitchen area for an afternoon with the Jayco Newcastle staff and customers. We were serenaded by local musician Luke Ligtenberg, who could sing, play guitar, and the didgeridoo all at the same time. Everyone indulged in the food cooked by the local Lions Club, and the best part was that Jayco Newcastle always supports and utilizes businesses in the local area.
The night ended around the bonfire with some great new likeminded people we had met that afternoon. A special treat was added when musician Luke sang a few more of his own songs, and everyone laughed the night away.
Sunday was a dreaded back up day for some, but they put on their back up playlist and took it slow. There is something about Mt Seaview that just forces you to slow down and appreciate it all for what it is. Some friends were waved off, Ralph held some more 4WD tours for people staying, and the resident Kelpie got a few more ball throws in.
The Jayco Newcastle customer appreciation weekends are always a great time, and the first one for the year was a huge success. Everyone is looking forward to the next two which will be held at BIG4 Karuah Jetty in August and Norah Head Holiday Park in November!
If you are a Jayco Newcastle RV owner, you can click here to register.
Destinations