South Australian grey nomads could be in for a minor windfall as the state government unveils a new voucher scheme to encourage people to support flood-affected Murray River communities.
More than 25,000 vouchers will be released by ballot over three rounds this year, kicking off with round one launching next month.
With values of $50, $100 and $200, vouchers can be used for experiences and accommodation in the Riverland and Murray River, Lakes & Coorong regions.
For the first time, the vouchers can be used for caravan park sites, adding several thousand more options across the region as the larger parks re-open, such as Discovery Parks Lake Bonney, Big 4 Renmark Riverfront and Waikerie Holiday Park.
Tourist activities on the The Murray River have been severely curtailed this year. PIC: Clarko1959 / Pixabay
During the flood event, 10 of the 22 SA Parks properties were forced to close, with five remaining closed, while others are either open or in the process of recommissioning.
Three were significantly impacted and have not yet set a date to reopen.
SA Tourism Minster, Zoe Bettison, urged people to ‘Rise up for our River’ and help tourism operators impacted by this once-in-a-century flooding event.
“Tourism recovery in the regions has gone from strength-to-strength with eight consecutive months of record-breaking occupancy, but businesses along the Murray haven’t had a chance to enjoy that strong demand,” she said. “From wine and food, nature at its best, accommodation from camping and family-friendly caravan parks to 5-star luxury getaways – our river regions have it all.”
Registrations for the ballot open on March 27, and close on March 29 for travel between March 31 and June 29 this year.
Potential travellers can register their interest in the River Revival Vouchers by clicking here.
Are you a Grey Nomad member yet? Click here to find out about the discounts, competitions and other benefits on offer.
I bet the vouchers will be for SA residents only
I hope this is open to all Aussies as we will be travelling to BRB and have 2 weeks prior to spend somewhere on our way to Birdsville.