News

Solo Network rallies in Elmore

By Lua Ikenasio

Apr 6, 2026

Winners of the Everything Gold Dinner Party Dorian Marsland-Smith and John Elliot.

The Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia’s Solo Network made Elmore its home away from home during its week-long national rally.

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The annual event offers participants the chance to experience regional communities across the country while also injecting money back into the host town.

This year’s rally saw almost 300 network members travel from around Australia to gather at the Elmore Events Centre.

Yvonne Lindsay, Margaret Scott, Rosemary Robinson and Meri Ross playing cards.

Throughout the week, members took part in a range of activities, explored the area and connected with one another.

CMCA Solo Network media officer David Wilson said events such as the rallies are life-changing for many people.

“I was formerly a teacher, but then when I retired, the loneliness really kicked in. My mental health was taking a pounding,” he said.

“I found the solos two-and-a-half years ago and it just brought me back to life and coming to these rallies, I just absolutely love them because of the friendship that’s shown by people here and acceptance.

“Quite a few people say the solos change their lives or save their lives.”

The communities that host the rallies also benefit, with the group spending more than $100,000 at each location.

Throughout the week, attendees enjoyed a packed program of dance classes, workshops, crafts and seminars, along with friendly competitions including cards, trivia nights, disc bowls and barefoot bowls.

The members getting a groove in throughout the week.

There were also tours running for those wanting to travel beyond Elmore to nearby towns including Rochester and Echuca.

Local caterers helped feed the crowds, while group meals at nearby restaurants and pubs further supported the town.

While many of the participants were seasoned members of the Solos Network, it was the first rally for some.

Catering volunteers Ann Stellini and David Gibson.

First-timer Daniel Potent said he enjoyed meeting new people.

“(I’ve enjoyed) meeting more people and just seeing how it all works,” he said.

“It is nice to put yourself out there ... to do it as an older person puts a totally different dimension on it because you become a child again. You’ve got to go make new friends.

“I'm so enjoying the solos. I'm enjoying it on so many levels ... it’s been so good for me.”

The Solos Network National Rally was held from Friday, March 20, to Friday, March 27.