Zone RV Collapse has placed the future of one of Queensland’s largest luxury caravan manufacturers in question. The business, operating as Zone Manufacturing Pty Ltd in Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast, entered voluntary administration with hundreds of staff and customers now waiting for direction. Administrators Rahul Goyal, Catherine Margaret Conneely and Stephen Earel of Cor Cordis were appointed, according to an ASIC notice.
Zone RV’s Coolum Beach premises remained locked as administration commenced
The appointment arrived at a difficult time, just weeks before Christmas, when many customers expected to collect finished vans. The first creditors’ meeting will take place on December 10, where financial information may be presented to those with claims.
Company enters reduced trading as review begins
A Cor Cordis spokesperson confirmed that the immediate objective is to preserve value for employees, customers and suppliers while assessing trading options. Zone RV Collapse forced the company into a scaled-back operation, with only limited functions continuing as administrators review accounts, orders and ongoing work.
Cor Cordis also stated that all viable options will be evaluated to secure a sustainable outcome for the brand. This process includes potential restructuring, partial sale, or continued trading under controlled operations. While this review continues, those waiting on caravans or entitlements remain uncertain.
Workers told to go home during morning shift
Zone RV Collapse presented a shock for the workforce at Coolum, where around 250 employees arrived for work on Monday and were sent home. Staff learned of the administration on-site, leaving many unsure about wages, leave balances and outstanding entitlements.
About 250 employees were sent home after the Zone RV Collapse was announced
The ABC reported that numerous workers may be owed holiday pay and other employee benefits. Conditions relating to those entitlements will depend on the administration outcome and available assets. Some employees shared concerns for colleagues who had relocated closer to the factory in recent months for expanded production.
Customers speak after paying final balances before shutdown
The Zone RV Collapse left several buyers facing financial uncertainty. One customer, Ray Barbison, 75, said he paid the remaining balance on his $194,000 caravan before the gates closed. He stated that the payment represented his life savings and had planned to tour around Australia.
Customers who had recently paid balances waited outside the closed facility
Another couple, Ray and Barb Davidson, travelled from Warragul and were asked to transfer their final $40,000 payment hours before closure. Upon returning to the Coolum premises for handover, they found the gates locked and no access available. They now wait for updates from administrators and remain unsure whether they will receive the caravan they believe is registered in their name.
Multiple customers arrived to collect vans that remain behind locked gates
Zone RV Collapse affected more buyers who had made large payments. A Sydney couple paid $270,000 and planned to collect their caravan the following week. Another couple drove from Orange with expectations to finalise their purchase, although access was not granted after the shutdown.
Uncollected caravans remain behind fencing at the Zone RV yard
At least four customers were present outside the premises on the day of closure, seeking answers or visual confirmation of orders. Vans remain visible behind locked fencing with no handovers scheduled until further announcements.
Suppliers also experience financial strain due to halted production
Zone RV Collapse extended beyond employees and customers, with suppliers now facing contract uncertainty. Robert Cooper reported spending $500,000 on equipment specifically for Zone RV work. He described the situation as a major setback for his business.
Suppliers across fabrication, components and materials are expected to lodge creditor claims when administrators release instructions. The financial status of these contracts will depend on whether trading resumes or assets are liquidated. The business had previously invested in major production capability, including a $1.16 million Queensland government grant for a large-scale 3D printer in 2023.
Industry sees further pressure with multiple caravan operators affected
Zone RV Collapse followed difficulties across the Australian caravan manufacturing market. Infinity Motorhomes in Coomera, Tango Caravans in Victoria, and Boss Adventure on the Gold Coast have each faced downturns in recent months. Market shifts and reduced discretionary spending have pressured demand for premium off-road caravans.
While Zone RV had built a strong presence in the off-road space, order postponements and trading constraints have contributed to the administration. Calls and emails to Zone RV went unanswered, and the company’s Facebook page was disabled after the announcement. Founder and director David Biggar did not respond to media enquiries.
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Final thoughts
The Zone RV Collapse has left a large customer and workforce base waiting for the administration process to move forward. Employees, buyers and suppliers will look toward the upcoming creditors’ meeting for early guidance, while caravans remain locked behind the Coolum facility gates. The coming weeks may determine whether the business trades under new terms or takes a separate path under administrator direction.
