Crusader Caravans has been named the 2025 Manufacturer of the Year at the Caravan Industry Victoria (CIV) Hall of Fame Awards, earning the industry’s top honour for its contributions to caravan and RV manufacturing in Australia.
The award, judged by a panel of independent industry experts, recognises outstanding achievement across a range of criteria including manufacturing quality, operations, materials, sales, marketing, and customer support.
The accolade marks the fourth time in six years that Crusader Caravans has received the prestigious title, underlining the company’s reputation for consistency and excellence in local manufacturing.
“It is an honour to be selected as the number one Australian caravan manufacturer above some of the most respected names in the industry, including Jayco, New Age, and Snowy River to name a few,” said Serge Valentino, Founder and CEO of Crusader Caravans.
The Melbourne-based manufacturer has become known for its innovative production processes and focus on local, high-quality craftsmanship.
“We’re also incredibly proud to be the first and only caravan manufacturer to win the Manufacturer of the Year award and achieve CIV accreditation as a Master Manufacturer,” Valentino said.
“This unique combination of achievements confirms that Crusader Caravans is a brand that truly stands out for manufacturing excellence and premium service.”
Judges noted the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Epping, Victoria, as a key factor in its recognition.
The purpose-built plant is designed around world-class production principles and reflects Crusader’s commitment to modern, efficient, and quality-driven caravan manufacturing. “It’s proudly one of the most advanced facilities in the Australian caravan industry,” Valentino said.
At the heart of Crusader’s operations is a team of in-house engineers, designers, and skilled tradespeople, whose work is driven by a shared commitment to delivering high-performance caravans built for the Australian lifestyle.
“Crusader’s team… build each caravan with the same care and pride as if it was their own,” Valentino added.
The company’s latest MY25 range, which includes 33 models across eight core lines, has been developed using EcoLite full composite materials, delivering lighter, stronger, and more advanced caravans compared to traditional builds.
“With more than 22 years of caravan manufacturing experience behind us, we’re proud to be a trusted Australian manufacturer,” Valentino said. “Our strong track record of consistently delivering high-quality, locally made caravans is reflected in our rapidly growing customer base.”
In addition to manufacturing, Crusader Caravans continues to invest in consumer education and support, offering a free downloadable Caravan Buyer’s Guide that has been accessed more than 43,000 times.
“We aim to empower buyers with the knowledge they need to make confident, informed decisions,” said Valentino.
