THE 2015 Terara Country Music Campout at the weekend was the biggest yet according to organiser Owen Ison.
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Mr Ison and his wife Thelma host the annual three-day campout, featuring a number of artists, on their Millbank Road property.
From the air, the property just east of Nowra, resembled a new instant suburb.
Affectionately known as “Owie’s World”, this year’s campout attracted 270 caravans from across the country.
“It is the most vans ever,” Mr Ison said.
“As well as the campers we also had a large number of locals attend, which made the weekend huge.
“The weather was kind to us for a change and that also helped attract big crowds.
“The support of the locals was especially great to see.
“It was a top weekend, everyone seemed to love it.”
Mr Ison said many of the campers spend more than a week at the location and estimated the campout generated thousands of dollars for local businesses.
“I can’t say exactly how much money the campers spend in the area but it would be considerable,” he said.
“I know for a fact, four women went into town to buy some clothes and spent $2000 between them.
“That’s just one instance.
“And each car and van that leaves the property goes with a full tank of petrol worth at least $100.
“We spent between $300 and $400 on toilet paper alone for the weekend.
“Next year I think we might have a docket collection area and see how much money they do spend while they are here.”
The majority of the visitors hit the road early Monday morning, while a couple are staying a few extra days, Mr Ison said.
While still tallying how much money was raised from the weekend, Mr Ison said they would again support Noah’s Shoalhaven by purchasing a vital piece of equipment for its students.
Mr Ison hopes next year’s event, which is scheduled for the first week of March, will be even bigger and better.