Having just officially unveiled its much-admired silo art, the Eyre Peninsula town of Kimba is very much feeling the love from grey nomads and free camping enthusiasts.
And, while the farming community may still be been wrestling with a controversial proposal to locate a nuclear dump nearby, it seems it is totally united in its desire to see more caravanners and motorhomers call in.
The 25-metre tall, 60-metre wide silo mural created by Melbourne artist Cam Scale is just the latest in a series of traveller-friendly initiatives launched by the District Council of Kimba. A recent survey of travellers passing through Kimba has resulted in high praise for the town’s camping facilities, and particularly the fact that there is no compulsory fee.
“We’ve found that people are usually willing to give a voluntary contribution of $5-$10 per person a night in return for the nice facilities offered,” said council’s Tourism Officer, Georgie Shirley. “Like other small agricultural towns we are mindful of encouraging industry and economic growth that is not reliant on the rainfall, and we saw the opportunity to capitalise on the passing traffic.”
While there are actually three free camping sites within the Kimba township, the Recreation Reserve Campground is the one best set up for caravans and motorhomes, offering a dump point, coin-operated shower, toilet facilities, and a free barbecue.
However, while grey nomads are actually encouraged to stay between five and seven days at the Rec Reserve, the camping survey found most only stayed one night on their way somewhere else … and that’s something the council is keen to change.
It is currently considering supporting a tourism operator to take tourists on day trips to places like the Gawler Ranges, Secret Rocks, and Lake Gilles … and have them home to their caravans for tea time.
The council has also set up a ‘Grey Nomad’s Program’ for those who want to volunteer their time.
“This has attracted a fair few people travelling through looking to give back to the community,” said Ms Shirley. “They have contributed considerably to the upgrade of our local Kimba & Gawler Ranges Historical Museum, undertaking refurbishment works such as painting, landscaping and general handyman tasks.”
In its effort to ensure everyone is a winner, the council is also engaging with the local privately-owned caravan park.
“The Kimba Roadhouse Motel & Caravan Park is attached to our gas station on the highway as you head west out of town,” said Ms Shirley. “We always recommend travellers go there when they are seeking other accommodation options, especially if they need power as this is not offered at the free camp areas.”
• Do you think Kimba is offering a template of how it should be done to other towns? Comment below
Congratulations Kimba. You have got it right. Kim a is a wonderful place to stop over and top up. Clean, friendly, pretty, we love you.