With the popularity of the camping lifestyle continuing to boom, it is remarkable that question marks continue to hang over the future of so many established caravan parks … even when there is overwhelming support for their continuing operation.
That’s certainly the case at the council-managed Maldon Caravan Park, less than a couple of hours northwest of Melbourne.
Back in February, Mount Alexander Shire Council announced it was reviewing the future potential use of the site, with options under consideration including; maintaining the operation of the caravan park; repurposing the land; and handing the site back to the state government.
After inviting public feedback, more than 90% of respondents told the council they wanted the caravan park to continue, with most also wanting to see investment in upgrading the facilities.
Maldon’s historic streetscape is a popular attraction for visitors PIC: Visit Victoria / Rob Blackburn / DMR
At its recent meeting, the council noted the outcomes of the community consultation, and approved the budget allocation for the continued operation of the park for the 2025/2026 financial year ‘while investigations are undertaken on appropriate management models’.
Maldon Caravan Park is much loved by the local community. PIC: Mount Alexander Shire Council
One of the issues that the council is facing is the likely need for significant investment.
“The facilities at Maldon Caravan Park are dated and aimed at the budget end of the market and may not be of a standard to meet current market demand,” a council report said. “It is likely significant capital expenditure will be required to upgrade the buildings at the park to ensure its ongoing viability.”
The council also acknowledged that rumours about the park’s potential closure had impacted its business, as had the fact that no marketing had been done to promote the park. While it is well used during local events, occupancy levels there have averaged just 18% over the past 15 months, significantly lower than in previous periods.
While the council has pledged to become completely transparent as it decides the long-term future of the park, it seems the uncertainty will continue to linger a while longer … although there is a genuine acknowledgement of its value.
“Currently, we do not have statistics on the percentage of grey nomads visiting the caravan park,” a council spokesperson told the Grey Nomads. “However, caravan park visitors contribute to the local economy through their patronage of cafes and restaurants, businesses and tourist activities.”
The council said the Caravan Industry Association of Australia had reported that each dollar of caravan park revenue generated $1.38 of economic activity in the local community.
“Maldon’s significant history is safeguarded by the National Trust and this means that visitors can experience Maldon’s past through the ghost signs on the walls, the streetscape facades that retain their grandeur and the many gold-mining relics around the outskirts of town,” the spokesperson said.
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Maldon is a lovely historic town.
What’s wrong with dated CP facilities?
As long as they’re kept clean that’s fine by us.