A Legacy of Strength and Adventure: The Story of The Bush Company
At The Bush Company, crafting gear that endures the test of time is more than a mission—it's a family legacy. Dean Gurney, along with his family, has spent decades perfecting products that are as reliable as they are rugged. The AX27™ rooftop tent stands as the pinnacle of their expertise: a perfect blend of innovation, durability, and functionality designed for the most demanding off-road adventurers.
From African Roots to Global Exploration
Dean’s journey began in the heart of South Africa, where he developed a deep love for the wilderness. Growing up on safari, he explored remote corners of the African continent, experiences that ignited his passion for adventure. As his horizons expanded, so did his travels—to Australia, the United States, and beyond. In 2015, Dean made Australia his home, bringing with him the knowledge and inspiration gathered from years of exploration.
Breaking New Ground in Off-Road Innovation
The path to creating exceptional off-road gear started in 2007 with the design of freestanding 270-degree awnings. Revolutionary for their time, these awnings could stand unsupported in moderate winds, offering a practical solution for off-roaders.
By 2012, Dean turned his focus to rooftop tents, introducing a groundbreaking design: a hard-shell tent constructed from durable alloy, steel, and heavy-duty canvas. Unlike the fiberglass options common at the time, this tent was built to thrive in extreme environments—from the scorching deserts of Africa to the rugged outback of Australia. Today, there are plenty of the Classic tents still out and being used every day.
Redefining the Rooftop Tent with the AX27™
The release of the AX27™ in 2018 marked a new era for The Bush Company. This second-generation rooftop tent addressed challenges faced by serious overlanders. Dean and his team didn’t just refine the design; they revolutionized it.
One significant innovation was tackling the loss of roof storage space. The solution? The Ezi-slot™ system, an ingenious alloy extrusion allowing adventurers to mount gear like recovery boards, solar panels, and tools directly onto the tent. This turned the AX27™ into more than just a tent—it became a fully integrated adventure solution.
The tent itself offers a 1.7-meter internal height, making it one of the most spacious options for long-term travelers. Dual-layered canvas, paired with strategically placed air vents, provides superior ventilation, reduces condensation, and enhances insulation, ensuring comfort in all seasons.
Built Stronger, Built for Life
The AX27™, along with its counterpart, the TX27™, and other products from The Bush Company, continues to be proudly manufactured in South Africa using locally sourced materials. This commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensures every piece of gear is ready to conquer the world’s most remote and unforgiving terrains.
Dean Gurney and his team stand by their mantra: Built Stronger. Built for Adventure. Built for Life. With a legacy rooted in exploration and a passion for innovation, The Bush Company continues to equip adventurers with gear they can trust—no matter where the journey takes them.
