Bushmaster Caravans’ Ironbark is designed for remote tracks and real-world travel. There’s no fluff here — just smart features, serious protection and a focus on reliability that outlasts the gloss.
In brief
- 20ft 10in custom offroad-ready caravan
- Simplicity Axles load-sharing suspension
- 1000W solar, 4 x 240Ah lithium batteries
- Five-year warranty from Bushmaster
Like a platypus in the wild, a Bushmaster caravan is an elusive icon — so when the opportunity came up to tow-test the Ironbark 20ft 10in, we were never going to turn down the offer to see the battle-ready clad beast.
Is this the last serious offroad caravan you’ll ever need?
In a market saturated with bold claims and flash finishes, the Bushmaster Ironbark 20ft 10in cuts a different silhouette. Built in Campbellfield in Melbourne’s north by Terry Ryan, a long-time caravanner turned builder, the Ironbark isn’t trying to follow trends — it’s trying to outlast them. And maybe that’s the point.
With checkerplate alloy cladding, a gusseted ARV chassis, Simplicity Axles load sharing suspension and a rooftop solar system that punches out real-world performance, the Ironbark makes a clear case for serious off-grid touring.
But this van isn’t just about toughness — it’s also thoughtful. A custom front toolbox houses a Swift barbecue, sullage tray and dual gas bottles. Inside, you’ll find genuine leather upholstery, a 274L compressor fridge, and a 3.2kg front-loader washer — all backed by a straight-talking five-year warranty.
So, in an age where many vans seem designed more for showgrounds than tracks, it begs the question: is the Ironbark overbuilt in all the right ways — or has it simply raised the bar for what a real offroad caravan should be? We hit the road — and the rough stuff — to find out.
Who will buy the Ironbark and why?
While the Ironbark tends to attract seasoned caravanners — those on their second or third van — it’s by no means exclusive to them. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, toughness and the direct, no-fuss process of working with Terry Ryan, who personally oversees each van’s creation.
Buyers looking for a van built to travel — really travel — will appreciate the Ironbark’s custom-fit approach. You don’t just pick a layout off the shelf; you speak with the team, explain your needs and the van is built to suit. That means thoughtful storage, serious power systems and structural decisions that reflect how people actually use their vans — on-road and off. It’s this flexibility, combined with old-school durability, that appeals to both the experienced and the well-researched.
If you value substance over sparkle, the Ironbark offers a confident, long-term touring platform right from the start.
This is a van built for serious off-grid touring
What it will set you back and why that’s OK
There are plenty of offroad vans on the market in the same size bracket as the Bushmaster Ironbark, but what sets this one apart is its pricing relative to its spec. At $148,990 as tested, it includes the full off-grid power suite, high-end Simplicity Axles suspension, the ARV gusseted chassis and a raft of custom-engineered inclusions.
When compared to similar offerings, the Ironbark’s value becomes evident. The Titanium Hardcore 18’6, for instance, is priced at around $133,400 and comes equipped with a 600Ah lithium battery and 540W of solar power but lacks the comprehensive off-grid capabilities and custom engineering found in the Ironbark.
The Eden Wildtrax 19ft 6 is similarly priced at $134,900 with options fitted and features a 200Ah lithium battery and 540W of solar panels, yet it doesn’t match the Ironbark’s chassis and suspension robustness.
Behind the wheel
The Bushmaster Ironbark runs on a locally made ARV chassis, which impresses with its gusseted box-section design — a sign of serious intent when it comes to strength and towing confidence.
Up front, the coupling is an AL-KO Off-Road Ball Coupling by default, though buyers can opt for a Cruisemaster DO35 if they prefer. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is included and again sourced from AL-KO, ensuring a higher level of safety under braking or in crosswinds.
AL-KO Off-Road Coupling
Underneath, Bushmaster has fitted Simplicity Axle’s load-sharing leaf spring suspension, a setup we’ve reviewed previously and found exceptional. It not only smooths out minor corrugations but also offers impressive articulation over uneven terrain, keeping the van stable and balanced in the real world.
All Bushmaster caravans ride on General Grabber all-terrain tyres, and this particular Ironbark runs 265/75 R16s. We’re fans of the General Grabbers — they strike a great balance between durability and grip. They’re tough enough to handle sustained offroad touring without sacrificing on-road confidence, making them an ideal match for a van built to tackle mixed terrain.
General Grabber all-terrain tyres for offroad touring
Further boosting the Ironbark’s towing and offroad credibility is Terry’s own custom-designed DRS (dust reduction system). Positioned high on the van’s front leading edge, the unit is optimally placed to draw in the cleanest air possible. While Terry wouldn’t give up exactly which automotive air filter it uses, he hinted that it’s likely from either a Commodore or a Falcon — making replacements simple to source even in remote parts of the country. It’s a clever and practical solution to one of offroad touring’s most persistent annoyances.
All Bushmaster caravans come supplied with a weight distribution hitch. These hitches help transfer some of the drawbar load back onto the front wheels of the tow vehicle. The result is a more level towing setup, which significantly improves both braking and handling performance — especially critical when driving with a fully loaded van. It’s a small detail that speaks volumes about Bushmaster’s commitment to safe, real-world towing dynamics.
With a 3500kg ATM and a ball weight in the range of 250–270kg, the Ironbark sits comfortably within the towing capabilities of most modern dual cab utes and large SUVs. During our test, Terry towed the van using his well-proven ML350 Mercedes-Benz without issue. We also had the opportunity to tow it with a Ford F-150, and again, it was a seamless experience.
We tow-tested the Bushmaster Ironbark 20ft 10in with Terry’s ML350 Mercedes-Benz and a Ford F-150, and it performed flawlessly
A great match for this van would be a large SUV with a relatively short rear overhang between the rear axle and the tow hitch. This setup improves offroad manoeuvrability, allowing the van to follow more tightly through turns. Vehicles like the Ranger V6 or Isuzu D-MAX would also be well suited to this van, offering confident towing performance on and off the bitumen.
Bushmaster: Built better
One of the standout features of the Bushmaster Ironbark is the small but thoughtful attention to detail that builder Terry consistently delivers. A prime example is the front aluminium toolbox — or general-purpose locker — which includes a dedicated storage tray that’s ideal for sullage hoses and other awkward gear. Another clever touch is the inclusion of integrated locks for the gas bottles housed at the front. These are a welcome addition for peace of mind, especially considering how annoying gas bottle theft can be. The locks are well-designed and seamlessly built into the box structure, making them a practical and security-conscious upgrade.
The custom front toolbox houses the barbecue, sullage tray and dual gas bottles
Other examples of Terry going out of his way to source or custom-create the right components include the alloy extrusion capping used throughout the joint network of the caravan’s body — a detail that speaks to long-term durability and weather resistance. Another standout is the aluminium map tables, which Terry sources himself from China. They’re not only functional and sturdy but add a real design edge to the van’s fit-out.
Windows across the van are supplied by Aussie Traveller, and this particular Ironbark features the last of the older bubble-style units. From here on, Bushmaster will move to the newer flush-mounted versions that deliver a cleaner aesthetic. Up front, the van is fitted with a Milenco Columbia door. It’s exceptionally solid and uses a crime-proof design, allowing the main door to be pegged open while keeping the screen closed and locked — an excellent combination of ventilation and security.
Another example of clever engineering is the inclusion of high-mounted stop lights at the rear of the caravan — an important safety feature that improves visibility, particularly for drivers following closely in traffic. Just as impressive is the standard-fit 360-degree camera system. While it may look like a simple reversing camera at first glance, the Ironbark actually features side and rear-mounted lenses that provide full visibility around the van. It’s an invaluable asset when navigating tight tracks, low-hanging branches or tight campsite corners, and a clear sign that this van is designed for real-world touring.
Storage, the spare and high-mounted stop lights on the rear of the van
Together, these features significantly elevate both safety and usability — hallmarks of a serious offroad build. Returning to the underpinnings of the Ironbark, it’s worth highlighting the investment made in the chassis and suspension. The ARV gusseted and sealed chassis paired with Simplicity Axles’ load-sharing suspension comes in at a combined cost of around $22,000–$25,000. While some may balk at that price compared to more basic $7000–$12,000 chassis and suspension setups, there’s a clear reason for the spend — this combination offers unmatched durability and ride quality, making it a cornerstone of the van’s rugged credentials.
Bushmaster constructs its caravan frames from aluminium — a material favoured for good reason. It’s lightweight, helping manage tare weight, and it’s also robust and completely rot-resistant, making it a natural fit for long-term durability and offroad readiness. But what sets Bushmaster apart is how the frame is assembled. Rather than using the more common riveted or welded techniques, Terry employs a clever system of nylon joiners with a square male profile that slots into the box-section alloy tubing. These are then strategically bolted and screwed together. It’s a thoughtful approach that offers structural strength while also allowing a small degree of movement at each joint. That flexibility is critical for longevity, especially in offroad conditions where fully welded frames can fatigue and eventually crack. It’s the kind of detail that reveals an experienced hand behind the design — one that knows how caravans behave after thousands of kilometres on harsh tracks.
The body of Bushmaster vans are clad in lightweight aluminium checkerplate. Compared to traditional composite cladding, it’s around 14 per cent lighter — helping keep tare weight down while also offering superior strength and durability. For offroad use, this makes a lot of sense. It stands up better to knocks and scrapes and, if it does get scratched, the surface is easy to repaint or touch up, making ongoing maintenance far simpler for owners tackling rugged terrain.
Another subtle but important element of the Ironbark’s construction is its roof design. It slopes in all directions — front to back and side to side. This reduces the chance of water pooling around critical roof features such as solar panel mounts, air-conditioning units or roof hatches. It’s a smart design detail that improves long-term durability and lowers the risk of leaks, especially in rough or remote touring conditions.
The aluminium frame adds to its offroad capability, while elements like the sloping roof improves long-term durability
Comforts, night and day
In terms of comfort, the Bushmaster Ironbark includes a Swift gas/electric hot water service, ensuring reliable access to hot water whether you’re plugged in or off-grid. Heating is handled by a diesel unit from Truma, which is a great inclusion for colder climates or shoulder-season touring. A particularly smart touch is the location of the heater controls, which are mounted conveniently at the bed head, meaning you don’t need to get up if the temperature drops during the night. Just reach out, fire it up and settle back under the doona.
The north–south island bed with great natural light and storage
Inside the front toolbox is the Swift barbecue that includes a pot cooker — an ideal setup for quick outdoor cooking without crowding the kitchen inside. I particularly like this style of barbecue because the grill can be removed easily, allowing you to quickly boil a pot of pasta or anything else without building up condensation inside the van. What makes this installation stand out is Terry’s decision to mount it on a custom-designed swivelling hinge. It tucks away tightly into the front locker, preserving storage space and maintaining clean, organised access. It’s a clever touch that makes practical touring that much easier.
The barbecue slides out of the front toolbox
Externally, the Ironbark features a shower accessible via a small hatch, plumbed into the Swift gas/electric hot water system. These external showers are incredibly practical, particularly for rinsing off after beach trips, cleaning bikes or hosing down sandy or muddy water sports gear before stepping inside. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference for active travellers who value keeping grit out of the living quarters. Furthering the focus on comfort, the internal cooking setup includes a multifunction microwave, neatly housed and securely screwed into a purpose-built recess in the shelving. Its low mounting position is a thoughtful touch, reducing the risk of spills or burns when removing hot items.
Food cooling duties are handled by the 274L Thetford compressor fridge/freezer. It’s paired with additional bracing to ensure stability over corrugations, while the 3.2kg front-loading washing machine has been integrated with the same level of care. These inclusions aren’t just practical — they’re installed in ways that support long-term durability.
Front-load washing machine in the rear ensuite
Elsewhere in the layout, small features continue to impress. A pillow-top north–south bed allows for undisturbed sleep and the wardrobes flanking it are adaptable — removable bars can be swapped for shelves depending on your travel style. Even the split kitchen sink shows thought: wash in one side, rinse in the other and keep it all clean and contained.
There are some nice touches in the kitchen, like the split sink and multifunctional microwave
Travel in style
How long can you stay off-grid?
Power is a key highlight of the Ironbark’s capability. The van houses four 240Ah Razor lithium batteries, charged by a 1000W rooftop solar system through a 70A MPPT regulator. A 43A AC charger and 30A DC-DC charger round out the setup, meaning it’s ready to recharge whether you’re plugged in, towing or parked under the sun. A 3000W inverter adds flexibility, comfortably running appliances like kettles, induction cooktops and air-con units when needed.
To learn more about the power you need to go off-grid, check out our guide to power management here.
The water capacity and systems are equally well considered. There are three 95L fresh water tanks, a 50L grey water tank and a 50L drinking water tank — complete with separate pump, tap and under-bench filter. It’s a simple system with smart plumbing that suits extended trips where water quality can vary.
Monitoring these systems is refreshingly straightforward. A dedicated battery monitor sits near the bed, giving at-a-glance updates without needing an app or touchscreen — just like the rest of the van, it’s about real-world usability, not fluff.
The battery boxes are protected by checkerplate covers
After sales support
Terry Ryan’s no-nonsense attitude carries through to the after-sales experience. Bushmaster’s vans are made in Campbellfield, Vic, by a small team that prefers practical excellence over polished sales talk. And that shows.
There’s no multi-page warranty booklet, no over-designed app. Just a clear and direct statement: every Bushmaster is backed by a five-year warranty that covers everything. Terry’s personal pride in each build means support is handled with the same honesty and care as the manufacturing process. That kind of old-school service is rare, and valuable.
X-factor and innovation
The Ironbark 20ft 10in’s X-factor is twofold: its rugged, purposeful build and the hands-on ethos of its creator. The checkerplate exterior, the custom front box, the 360-degree camera, the steel-tough chassis — it all says this is a van built to go further and last longer.
Innovation here doesn’t mean gimmicks. It means smart decisions: roof slopes that drain water, nylon-joined alloy frames that resist fatigue, marine rocker switches you can actually repair yourself. These aren’t tech showpieces — they’re real-world improvements that work in the bush, not just in brochures.
So, what did we think of the Bushmaster Ironbark 20ft 10in?
The Bushmaster Ironbark 20ft 10in is a van for people who take their travel seriously. It’s overbuilt in all the right ways, tuned for function and loaded with components selected by someone who’s walked the tracks and towed the weight. It’s doesn’t shout out for attention and quietly back itself with composure and substance.
If you’re looking for a van that feels like it was built for you — not just someone like you — the Ironbark may be the one.
The Bushmaster Ironbark is all about smart decisions and serious travel
Measuring up
Pros
- Custom-built to suit each buyer
- Weight distribution hitch included as standard
- Offroad-capable suspension and tyres
- High-spec power and water setup
- Five-year factory warranty
Cons
- Nothing comes to mind
BUSHMASTER IRONBARK 20FT 10IN RATINGS
VALUE FOR MONEY
It is pretty decent when you compare specs-to-specs
TOWABILITY
It tows well and the weight distribution hitch does add a level of assurance to the feel
SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING
For a couple who want a sensible offroader, the Ironbark is hard to beat
BUILD QUALITY
We’d like some modernisation of the interior decor but assume that’s as simple as asking for it
LIVEABILITY
Plenty of power, water and a comfortable bed tick the boxes
SELF-SUFFICIENCY
The simplicity in the setup is a rare delight but it’s also very powerful
CUSTOMER CARE
Terry promises the world a five-year warranty and I believe him, but you are still working with a small builder
INNOVATION
The innovation is the simplicity and componentry plus the way it’s built
X-FACTOR
Those in the know will recognise its purpose-built toughness and smart design — and they’ll rate it, too
BUSHMASTER IRONBARK 20FT 10IN SPECS
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
| Body length | 6.4m (20ft 10in) |
| Overall length | 8.2m (27ft 2in) |
| Width | 2.4m (7ft 9in) |
| Height | 3m (9ft 8in) |
| Tare | 2740kg |
| ATM | 3500kg |
| Payload | 760kg (calculated) |
| Ball weight at tare | 250–270kg |
| Ball to tare ratio | 9.1–9.9% (calculated) |
EXTERNAL
| Frame | Aluminium |
| Cladding | Aluminium checkerplate |
| Chassis | ARV Twin beam 150mm x 50mm, 300mm x 50mm |
| Suspension | Simplicity Axles load sharing |
| Coupling | AL-KO Off-Road Ball Coupling |
| Brakes | 12in drum |
| Wheels | 16in alloy with General Grabber 265x75 all-terrain tyres |
| Water | 3 x 95L freshwater, 1x 50L drinking water, 1 x 50L grey water |
| Battery | 4 x 240Ah Razor lithium |
| Inverter | 3000W |
| Solar | 1000W |
| Air-conditioner | Houghton Belaire |
| Gas | 2 x 9kg |
| Sway control | AL-KO ESC |
| Cooking | Swift barbecue |
INTERNAL
| Cooking | Swift HAWK oven, grill and cooktop |
| Microwave | Yes |
| Fridge | 274L Thetford compressor |
| Bathroom | Separate shower and cassette toilet |
| Washing machine | 3.2L front loader |
| Hot water | Swift gas/electric |
Bushmaster Ironbark 20ft 10in price from $148,990
OPTIONS FITTED
N/A
Bushmaster Ironbark 20ft 10in price as shown $148,990
MORE INFORMATION
28 Production Drive
Campbellfield Vic3061
P: Terry — 0408 194 481
E: bushmasteroffroadcaravans@gmail.com
THE NEXT STEP
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