Jayco’s Gerry Ryan to headline 2026 CRPVic Conference program

CRPVic is honoured to announce legendary Australian businessman, and caravan and UMD manufacturing pioneer, Gerry Ryan AO OAM will headline the 2026 CRPVic Conference.

As the founder of Jayco, Gerry is one of Australia’s most influential industry leaders, renowned for transforming a modest caravan operation that started in a small Cranbourne shed in 1975 into Australia’s largest recreational vehicle and UMD manufacturer.

With a $10,000 loan, relentless determination and an unwavering belief in Australian manufacturing, Gerry built Jayco into a national success story employing more than 1100 Australians and supporting local industry for over five decades.

His leadership, innovation and commitment to quality have reshaped the caravan and tourism sectors while keeping manufacturing proudly Victorian made.

In the 2026 Australia Day Honours, Gerry was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to sports governance, business, tourism, hospitality and philanthropy.

Gerry’s keynote appearance at the 2026 CRPVic Conference represents a rare opportunity to hear first-hand from a visionary entrepreneur whose story embodies resilience, innovation, leadership and community impact.

Delegates can expect powerful insights from an Australian icon who continues to inspire industries, businesses and communities nationwide.

His journey from factory floor to national industry icon perfectly reflects the ambition, courage and determination driving Australia’s entrepreneurial spirit.

To hear from Gerry and other industry leaders and innovators, register for the 2026 CRPVic Conference today. The heavily discounted early-bird rate of $880 ends on 31 May, so don’t delay and don’t forget!

A reminder for anyone wanting to stay onsite at Marvel Stadium, our special deals at Quest Docklands and Peppers Docklands Melbourne are filling up quickly so act now to secure a room just steps away from the action.