REMEMBER WHEN

GOLD COAST BULLETIN Thusday, December 28, 2006

IT was the most expensive campout in Australia.

This $10.5 million ocean-front block at Main Beach was a developer’s dream, with enough space for a lavish three-storey house complete with pool and underground car park.

But for the Wilkie family, who bought it in July 2006, the ocean views, three tents and a port-aloo were enough to fulfil their dreams.

The mystery multi-millionaire’s family spent Christmas Day under a tarp on their 882sq m site.

For four days they enjoyed barbecues, bonfires and beach soccer.

Owner Ray Wilkie said they set up the tents on Christmas Eve.

Days before, a tractor slasher was used to trim the grass.

Three tents, two for sleeping and one for dining, were set up, as was a portable shower and toilet at the back of the site.

Cars, including a BMW, a Toyota HiLux and a 100 Series LandCruiser, were also parked on the land.

Adding an authentic camping atmosphere, the BMW became bogged and had to be dug out.

Mr Wilkie, who declined to pose for a photo, said he was planning to build a home on the site.

He told the Bulletin that he was a “private man”.

Records showed his property portfolio included a luxury house at nearby Paradise Waters.

He was also a shareholder in two private companies, Ray Wilkie Investments and CEW Investments.

Mr Wilkie said he and his seven family members planned to stay a few more days at the site, weather permitting.