Novice towers, motorhomers or travellers hauling larger caravans will now find it easier to access river-side camping at Paradise Valley, near Heyfield in Gippsland.
Vital earth works have improved the driveway, created a separate exit and eased the tight corners on the way in.
Check-in is easier too with room to park the caravan near the entry for a stress-free start to your holiday on the sandy Macalister River flats.
“Guests who are new to towing, who are hiring a caravan can just drive through onto their campsites where they can stay hitched,” says owner-manager Cheryle Bourne.
“It’s also a lot easier for motorhomes. It just opens it up to more travellers–not just the experienced.”
PARADISE VALLEY FARMING ROOTS
To minimise congestion, Cheryle and Steve Bourne removed farming infrastructure allowing for the new exit on the 60-acre property at the Alpine National Park foothills.
“We employed local tradespeople Macalister Earthmoving who widened the entry when we first came here two and a half years ago.”
“The previous owners were very farm orientated,” says Cheryle.
The couple from Rosedale purchased the property on a near-whim, having camped here with their young family 25 years ago.
Since taking on the reins, Cheryle and Steve have added more amenities, installed more fire hoses, planted trees and tidied up the grounds–taking care to maintain its rural appeal.
“We still have sheep here who eat the grass.”
SECURE, FUSS-FREE HOLIDAYING ON THE MACALISTER RIVER
The road works improve security for campers during their stay.
Newly-installed boom gates recognise registered number plates so guests can access their campsites with little fuss safely.
What’s more, visitors no longer need to attach yellow stickers to their vehicles during their stay.
The bush-style caravan camping park currently has 12 powered sites, three cabins and capped numbers along 1.5km of river-fronted camping.
“We also have an arrangement with caravan providers who come in and set up the van for guests.
“It’s a popular choice for people who don’t have a caravan but want to camp with their friends along the river.”
Dogs on leashes at manager’s discretion, call in advance.
The 60-acre property has 1.5km
EXPLORING OUR OWN BACKYARD
Since undertaking gradual improvements, Cheryle are successfully attracting more guests to the property.
In fact, with travellers confined by border closures are exploring their local regions.
“We’ve had people from Traralgon, Drouin and Phillip Island visit,” says Cheryl.
“Many of them have never been here before. They can’t believe this place is so close.
“The photos don’t do it justice–it’s lovely to see their excited faces.”