Our Council
We are proud to introduce the dedicated industry leaders who make up our Council. Each member brings valuable experience, insight, and a shared commitment to supporting our Association and its members. Their passion and expertise play a vital role in shaping the future of the caravan and RV industry across Victoria.
Together, we strive to drive innovation, strengthen our community, and ensure ongoing support for our members. Below, you’ll meet the individuals who have stepped forward to contribute to this important work—and learn why they choose to be part of our Council.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Nat Schiavello
Nat has been involved in the caravan industry for nearly 40 years, building strong relationships and contributing to its growth. He has served on the Association’s Council for 20 years, including two terms as President, and remains deeply passionate about supporting and advancing the caravan industry in Victoria.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I’m passionate about the caravan industry and want to continue helping shape its future. My experience allows me to represent members effectively and contribute to decisions that strengthen our industry.
Scott Jones
Scott is the Sales and Innovation Manager at Jayco Corporation Pty Ltd, the largest and most recognised RV brand in the Southern Hemisphere. He has been with Jayco for nearly 25 years, starting in Spare Parts and After Sales before progressing through various sales roles. Over time, Scott has led teams across sales, marketing, and product development, gaining deep industry knowledge. In his current role, he oversees a team of 15 and leads research, development, and innovation across Jayco’s product range, helping maintain the brand’s market-leading position.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I thrive on the variety this industry offers and the opportunity to drive positive change. Working for a brand with over 50 years of success has shown me the value of innovation, consistency, and customer focus. I’m passionate about helping shape the future of caravanning for the next generation of customers and confident I can contribute meaningfully to the industry through Council.
Bill Deralas
Bill is the proud owner of Royal Flair Caravans and has spent decades contributing to the growth of the recreational vehicle industry. Starting as a labourer in his family business, he learned every aspect of the trade before achieving his ambition of running the company alongside his father and siblings. Passionate about outdoor living and the RV lifestyle, Bill also has a strong community focus, having served as President of Sporting Whittlesea FC for 19 years supporting youth programs. His long-standing involvement on the Council has allowed him to help shape key decisions for the industry, and he remains committed to driving positive change.
I’m passionate about the RV industry and want to ensure it continues to evolve to meet changing demands. Being part of the Council gives me the opportunity to contribute to key decisions and represent our members. I believe in making a positive difference and will continue to serve as long as I can.
Samantha Hallo
As co-owner of Alpine Annexes alongside her husband XXX, Sam is passionate about the camping industry and delivering outstanding customer service to manufacturers, sales centres, service centres, and customers alike. Over her seven years in the industry, Sam has built strong relationships, gained a deep understanding of both manufacturer and customer needs, and played a key role in designing innovative, premium-quality products to meet the evolving designs of recreational vehicles. Her background in corporate management within government-funded industries and experience volunteering on multiple committees—including CIV—reflect his commitment to grassroots involvement and industry progress.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I believe being involved at the grassroots level is essential to truly invest in what you’re passionate about. I’ve enjoyed my time on the Council and want to continue contributing to the growth and professionalism of our industry. My goal is to bring fresh ideas and ensure we keep innovating for the future.
Michael Peebles
Michael has spent over 30 years in the caravan industry and runs a long-standing repair company in Bendigo. With nearly two decades of involvement on the Association’s Council—including roles as Treasurer, Vice President, and Chairperson—he is passionate about supporting the industry and representing a growing sector. Michael values continuity and is committed to serving the industry for as long as he has a seat at the table, enjoying every opportunity to engage with members and end users alike.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I love being involved with the Council and believe I bring a sense of continuity and experience. I represent an important and growing sector of the industry, and as long as I have a seat, I’ll continue to serve.
COUNCIL MEMBERS
David De Heus
David has 26 years of experience in the caravan industry. He is a former Treasurer and a current Councillor on the CIV Board, where he has collectively served for approximately seven years. David has also held positions as a Councillor and Vice President on the CIA South Australian Board.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I bring broad experience across all sectors of the industry—manufacturers, dealers, and retailers—which I believe makes me a strong representative for our members. My goal is to continue contributing to the Council and supporting the growth and professionalism of our industry.
Jack Hillis
Jack was born in Wagga Wagga, NSW, and began his career as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. After ten years in Darwin, he returned in 2017 to join the family business, Wagga Caravan Centre. When his father retired unexpectedly, Jack took over and applied engineering principles to improve operations. Since then, he has grown the team from 8 to over 20 and introduced leading practices in service, warranty, and sales—especially in the high-end off-road segment.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I see myself as part of a new generation of industry leaders—driven by passion, a strong work ethic, and a desire to make caravanning better for everyone, from businesses to travellers. I believe the customer experience must be a priority, and I want to help lead the improvements needed to make that a reality. I’m also committed to encouraging other emerging leaders and working together to create stable, rewarding career paths across all areas of the industry—from sales and service to repairs and manufacturing.
Jake King
Mariska Kemp
Originally from the Netherlands, Mariska moved to Australia in 2012 with a strong background in finance and public sector leadership. She joined Thetford Australia in 2014 and has progressed to Internal Sales & Service Manager, leading a team focused on operational efficiency and customer experience. With expertise in financial management, operations, and team leadership, Mariska is passionate about improving processes and fostering collaboration across the industry.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I want to help drive the strategic growth of our industry and strengthen collaboration between manufacturers, dealers, and service providers. My experience gives me insight into industry needs, and I’m committed to supporting initiatives that deliver value and ensure a strong future for Victoria’s caravan and camping sector.
Paul Gunther
Paul is a lifelong camper with a deep love for the Australian bush. He joined the caravan industry in 2006 as proprietor of Jayco Gippsland and became dealer principal in 2009. Passionate about caravanning as one of the best ways to explore our great country, Paul is committed to improving safety, quality, and professionalism across the industry. He brings a strong regional voice to the Council and works to foster collaboration, innovation, and better training for all.
I want to represent regional voices and help the industry continue to grow and improve. I’m passionate about making caravanning safer, more enjoyable, and more professional for everyone involved.
Paul Widdis
With over 25 years of experience driving revenue growth and operational excellence across APAC and international markets, Paul is a highly accomplished CEO and a 2024 “CEO of the Year” finalist. Skilled in P&L management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, Paul has a proven track record of leading high-performing teams, launching new ventures, and navigating complex business challenges. His expertise spans OEM, retail, e-commerce, and marketing, bringing a strong strategic perspective to the caravan industry.
WHY I JOINED COUNCIL
I want to leverage my experience to support industry growth, foster innovation, and help shape the future of the caravan sector in Victoria. By contributing strategic insights and leadership, I aim to strengthen collaboration and deliver long-term value for members.
COUNCIL ADVISORS
Shane Holloway
Craig Henry
Craig has 29 years of experience in the caravan industry through MTCS and AL-KO, where he has worked across all aspects of both businesses. He is currently Product Manager and part of the leadership team at AL-KO International. Craig enjoys caravanning with his family and is passionate about giving back to the industry and helping guide decisions that support growth and innovation.
Having served on the Council for many years, I understand the importance of representation across the entire caravan supply chain. Maintaining continuity is critical to ensure decisions are well-informed and benefit the industry as a whole. I’m proud to continue contributing as an advisor, supporting members and helping shape a stronger future for our industry.
