Ballina Shire Council will host free caravan safety workshops on 26 March 2026, giving travellers practical guidance on towing, loading and trip preparation ahead of the busy touring season.
The sessions will be delivered in partnership with Transport for NSW and held at the Ballina Surf Club. Two workshops will run during the day, with each session limited to 50 participants.
Key Details
The workshops are designed to help caravan owners better understand how to safely prepare their rigs before heading on the road.
Topics expected to be covered include:
- Correct caravan loading and weight distribution
- Safe towing techniques
- Pre-trip vehicle and caravan checks
- Travel preparation and planning
Attendance is free, but places are capped at 50 people per session, meaning bookings are likely to fill quickly.
Why This Matters for Travellers
Towing safety continues to be a key focus for road authorities as caravan travel grows across Australia.
Incorrect loading, poor weight distribution and misunderstanding towing limits are common issues that can affect braking performance, vehicle handling and overall road safety.
Some travellers also use towing aids to improve stability. Our Andersen Drop Weight Distribution Hitch preview looks at how weight distribution systems help balance loads between vehicle and caravan.
Workshops like these aim to give travellers practical guidance before they tow, helping reduce risks on highways and regional roads.
For many caravanners, particularly those new to towing or upgrading to larger vans, hands-on education can be one of the simplest ways to improve safety and confidence behind the wheel.
Context
The workshops form part of broader efforts by road safety agencies and councils to promote safe caravan travel.
As caravan ownership has increased in recent years, authorities have placed greater emphasis on educating drivers about towing limits, vehicle compatibility and correct loading practices.
Industry bodies and regulators, including the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), have also highlighted the importance of understanding caravan weights, towing capacities and safe setup when purchasing or using a caravan.
What Travellers Should Know
Travellers interested in attending should:
- Check session availability early due to the 50-person limit
- Bring questions about their towing setup or travel plans
- Consider attending if they are new to caravanning or upgrading equipment
The workshops are scheduled for 26 March 2026 at Ballina Surf Club, with two sessions planned during the day.
Further booking details are expected to be available through Ballina Shire Council channels.
Closing
Free training sessions such as these offer caravanners an opportunity to review their towing knowledge and preparation before setting out on longer trips. With limited spaces available, interested travellers may need to register early to secure a place.
