Tailgate Campers

Background

Tailgate Campers was created in 2008 by Irene and Noel Ham, who produce these all-Australian slide-on campers in rural Victoria. The couple have been exploring Australia together for more than 30 years, starting with the Telegraph Track in Cape York in a Subaru wagon with their 6-month-old baby. They progressed from tents to trailers to campers as their family grew.

Noel designed the slide-on to be lightweight, fuel efficient, and maximise every inch of space, creating a camper that could go anywhere in Australia. Irene’s requirements shaped the comfort and practicality aspects: minimal stairs (due to ongoing back issues), everything accessible, and setting up and packing away to be effortless. By popular demand, the design was made available to the public.

Ownership & Structure

Tailgate Campers is owned and operated by Irene and Noel Ham. The company is based in Goorambat, Victoria (rural northeast Victoria). It is a small, family-run operation. No sub-brands or corporate affiliations.

Manufacturing

All Tailgate campers are Australian-made at their facility in Goorambat, Victoria. The slide-on format is designed to fit onto a ute tray, eliminating the need for a trailer. The design prioritises lightweight construction and fuel efficiency. Setup takes under 40 seconds, and fitting/removing the camper from the ute is a 10-minute job for one person. All campers carry a full 5-year structural warranty.

Market Position

Tailgate occupies a niche position in the slide-on camper market. Slide-on campers appeal to 4WD enthusiasts who want the manoeuvrability of a ute without towing a trailer. The product suits remote outback travel where quick setup and compact size are essential. Pricing reflects the Australian-made construction and niche nature of the product.