Gold Class Caravans is a new premium caravan brand launched in May 2025 by Market Direct Group (MDG), the company behind MDC Camper Trailers. MDG’s story began in 2005 when founder Vaughan Hindley spotted a gap in the Australian camping market for tough, well-featured camper trailers at accessible prices. Starting with just $5,000 and an online store run from his garage in 2007, Vaughan built MDG into one of Australia’s most successful RV companies. MDG pioneered the first-ever hybrid caravan built in China for the Australian market in 2013.

Gold Class was created as a premium step up from MDG’s core MDC brand, launched with eight couple and family layouts across four body lengths from 16ft to 19ft. The brand emphasises a “bold new approach to luxury travel where everything comes standard.”

Ownership & Structure

Gold Class Caravans is owned by Market Direct Group (MDG), which also operates the MDC Campers and Caravans brand. MDG was founded by Vaughan Hindley. The company operates two distinct brands: MDC (the original, more affordable brand) and Gold Class (the premium, fully-specified brand launched in 2025).

Manufacturing

Gold Class caravans are designed in Australia and manufactured overseas. They are RVMAP-accredited and built in accordance with ISO9001 quality management standards. MDG’s manufacturing approach involves Australian design oversight with overseas production, which allows for competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards. The Market Direct Group provides strong customer support with a lifetime warranty on the chassis and a two-year warranty on the body for the original purchaser.

Market Position

Gold Class targets the mid-range segment with a “disruptive” pricing strategy. Entry Luxe Class semi off-road models range from $84,990 to $99,990 RRP, while fully kitted-out Adventure Class off-grid models range from $114,990 to $144,490 RRP. Professional reviewers note that comparable locally built vans would cost an additional $10K-$15K or more. The brand positions itself as offering the specification level and finish of a premium van at a more accessible price point.