PROFILE
Stephanie and Doron Francis’s love of the outdoors inspired their camp supplies business
Discover this innovative camping supplies business
Stephanie, Ste tell us about the Homecamp philosophy. Homecamp is all about encouraging people into the outdoors with well-designed, ususeful products that won’t end up as landfill – ‘products with purpose’. What W inspired you to create Homecamp. Was there an ‘a-ha’ moment? m Homecamp started out very organically. We had an olold bell tent we bought in the UK and every time we took it out cacamping, we would get loads of comments. At that time, bell tents wweren’t really available in Australia so we set about designing our owown version with materials more suited to Australian conditions. We put a lot of effort into finding a quality manufacturer, the right tent canvas, improving the hardware and adding functional details. We then began building our brand and website concept. One thing led to another and soon after Homecamp was born, we realised that it could be a lot more than just a website selling tents. What reaction have you received? It’s been really positive! As a tiny company, it’s been a hugely gratifying challenge and s steep learning curve. The absolute best part of the experience has been our customers – we have met so many great people who are into what we’re doing and are so supportive. What would you tell a time-poor tech addict who needs to disconnect but isn’t sure where to start? Start small but do invest in a decent tent and mattress. Most of the other gear – bedding, cooking equipment – you can source from around your own home. The easiest way to camp is car camping – driving directly to your campsite – so book a camping spot in one of our many wonderful national n parks (preferably somewhere with no phone reception!) and try to keep away from peak times of the year and high summer. What W are the health benefits of ‘therapeutic camping programs’? One of the reasons we started Homecamp was that we noticed how much positive energy our time in nature gave us. A simple one- o or two-night camping trip, sitting around a fire with friends, is i a therapeutic experience in itself. Add in star-gazing, a hike in the forest f and a swim in the river and you will find yourself rejuvenated and reconnecting to what’s important in life. What is on the horizon for Homecamp? Apart from our book, which is due out shortly, we’ve been working on a new tent design, a collection of bags and some other exciting products. Further down the track, we’re looking to expand Homecamp into the US; however, it’s one step at a time and we’re enjoying the journey.