As a newbie, this was my first Bash, so I cannot make any comparisons. But I can say this: I will certainly try my utmost to be there again next year irrespective of where it is. For me it was all about riding with friends, meeting new friends, checking out the Bash surrounds, the camaraderie and then the ride home again. For me it was about 600km's either way ...of which about 350 was dirt. If it's further next year I'll leave earlier!
Incidentally, I don't care too much about the ablutions and general facilities...I believe that 'roughing' it just a little brings out the camaraderie!