Thanks Eric and the others,
I think my best solution is to put the tube in my camper trailer in the shipping box with the original shipping supports. It won't need covering inside the camper. I can't get the base inside the camper without disassembly so that can go in the back of the 4WD.
I might also upgrade the mirror springs to Bob's ones and carry a laser collimation EP with me.
I've also bought an Oztrail pop up 'Observatory' that the 12" Dob fits into very nicely, with plenty of room:
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/Mzc5WDI5OA...L+Q~~60_35.JPG