A caravan park in a country town in South Australia is going above and beyond to keep its grey nomad guests happy … and that means an awful lot of baking!
In what must be close to a unique initiative, Laura Community Caravan Park serves freshly-baked scones to each and every new arrival, and the idea is going down a treat with guests.
Managers Naomi and Simon Purdue have been at the park for 18 months and inherited the tradition from the previous management team.
“Naomi does the baking and it can range from two dozen to as many as 10 dozen a day depending on bookings,” said Simon. “But she bakes every day, so they are always fresh.”
Simon delivers fresh scones to lucky guests (above left); there are several firepit areas in the park (top right); and Naomi (bottom right) is kept busy with the baking ... and lots of other jobs!
The scone service extends to delivering the scones to the caravans of guests once they are all set up, and it means the Purdues are kept pretty busy in what is their first van park management gig.
“It is just us and we do all the many tasks needed to keep the park running,” said Simon. “It’s a seven-days-a-week job but we love meeting all the people from different walks of life.”
Simon had previously been an administrator with the South Australian National Football, while Naomi ran her own hairdressing salon.
“Laura is a beautiful, quiet and peaceful town which brings many visitors to our region on the doorstep of the Flinders Ranges,” Simon said. “What may attract grey nomads is that we do not have a pool, water park, jumping pillow or playground in the park, so it’s not a very attractive stop for young families.”
As well as the scones and the serenity, the park – which is owned by the town’s tourism association – has plenty else to offer grey nomads, including a camp kitchen, designated fire areas, a well-maintained amenities block … and a low flat rate of $30 per night, as well as a seventh night free offer.
While Simon and Naomi have found themselves a lot busier than they expected, they have no regrets.
“We get a lot of compliments including on the little things like the fact we provide bath mats in the showers, the scones obviously, and the cleanliness of the park and its amenities,” said Simon. “We genuinely enjoy the challenge, and the rewards of having satisfied customers.”
WIN! WIN! WIN!Grey Nomad Members are being given the opportunity to win an organic bamboo fitted sheet set designed for caravans from Ecoluxe Travel Decor. The winner can choose a queen, double, or two singles. The prize is valued at approximately $100.
Click here to find out more about the prize, and how to enter.
Members: If you wish to enter, please click here.
The last time we stopped at Peak Hill Caravan park it was a cold and wet afternoon. Just after we got set up we heard a knock on our door and were presented with scones with jam and cream. Much appreciated.
We have enjoyed the hospitality of this quiet country park several times over the years. So pleased to see them get the recognition they deserve. And yes, the scones are well worth coming back for.
A very considerate and friendly gesture..!
Yes thats correct