Anecdotal evidence suggests worries over potential fuel shortages have had a major impact on traveller numbers, but communities up and down the country insist the fears are currently unfounded … and are urging grey nomads to keep on coming.
Chris Greg says on his maiden trip from Melbourne to Townsville in his new motorhome, he had no issues filling up, but could see the impact of fuel uncertainty.
“Caravan parks were quite easy to get into as there were not a lot of travellers and many owners were saying how the numbers were down compared to last year,” he said. “They are all hoping more people will start travelling soon.”
In more remote areas like the north western corner of New South Wales, the issues are particularly acute.
The Milparinka Heritage Precinct and Caravan Park is hoping to see more grey nomads
Jeff Catford from the Milparinka Heritage Precinct and Caravan Park – which is currently offering three nights for the cost of two – says the isolated community is eager to welcome grey nomads.
“Like much of the Outback, Milparinka is experiencing a sad drop-off with visitor numbers,” he said. “Worries about fuel availability and cost, along with fears about road conditions, are the reasons … but the worries don’t hold up.”
He says most of the roads are open, and there is fuel available at the iconic Albert Hotel 24 hours a day.
The Outback Queensland community of Winton is also urging visitors not to cancel travel plans. Winton Mayor, Cathy White, said fuel supply had not yet been an issue, and the town was still seeing a steady flow of travellers … but would like to welcome more.
“If you’re planning a trip, you won’t be alone,” she said. “Many of our visitors are still coming through, they’re just taking a different approach to their travels by staying longer in one place and making the most of each destination.”
She said grey nomads were absolutely vital to Outback communities and visitors at this time helped sustain local businesses, accommodation providers and tour operators for the year ahead.
“We’re hearing from the visitors that are coming that they are keen to support regional communities like ours which means a lot,” she said.
And the Mayor said flooding earlier in the year had left the landscape looking spectacular.
“There has actually never been a better time to visit,” she said. “After recent rain and Channel Country flooding, the areas around Winton are lush and green and that’s quite a show for out here … combined with our mild winter days and cooler nights – it’s perfect travelling weather.”
It’s a similar story in the remote South Australian opal mining town of Coober Pedy. The Business and Tourism Association there says fuel supply is not an issue, and – with the desert green and blooming – it’s an ideal time for visitors to come.
“Aside from the landscape, the most unique Outback town in the world is still going full bore with mining, tourism and hospitality,” a spokesperson said. “We are one of the most hospitable towns in Australia and we welcome nomads to spend an extra few days here.”
And in a bid to attract more grey nomads to the town, a number of local businesses are offering special deals to GNT readers. Click here to find out more.
Coober Pedy holds its famous Opal Festival from June 12-14 and the town is hoping plenty of grey nomads will be in town to enjoy the festivities.
Are you a Grey Nomad member yet? Click here to find out about the discounts, competitions and other benefits on offer.
