Wimmera-Mallee caravan parks and camping grounds are among recipients of State Government money for upgrades and development.

Yarriambiack Shire will benefit from $185,000 for an Enhancing Warracknabeal Creekside Camping Asset project, Northern Grampians Shire will have $170,000 to upgrade two ageing amenity blocks and Horsham will have $133,352 to upgrade its Riverside Caravan Park assets.

Other parks in the Mallee have also qualified for a funding boost as part of the government’s $105-million Great Outdoors program.

The government is directing the money to 30 new campgrounds and upgrades to 30 other sites across the state.

The Warracknabeal project involves replacement of ageing and damaged toilet and ensuite facilities. The design includes male and female toilets and showers, a unisex toilet and shower facility and an accessible laundry with washing and drying equipment.

The Horsham council will spend its grant money on improving accessibility and general amenities.

The Horsham project includes installation of a new pre-fabricated all-abilities ensuite; specialised furniture to improve access in two cabins; upgrade of caravan park sites with concrete slabs and new utility connections; installation of a Dump Ezy waste system inside the park; and construction of a new storage room.

The Horsham project involves a partnership with Southern Cross Parks.

Park manager Angela Jolly said the upgrade would make staying at the caravan park an attractive option for more people. 

“A particularly exciting element will be our first all-abilities ensuite to support a caravan or camping site,” she said.

Council chief executive Sunil Bhalla said the funding came at an ideal time.

“We have seen regional Victoria becoming a focus for local holiday makers in a huge way as we continue to live with the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said. 

“The Riverside Caravan Park is an important part of our strategic vision for the riverfront and this grant will improve accessibility options and enhance visitor experiences.”

Managers of Stawell Grampians Gate Caravan Park have described a $170,000 State Government grant as a timely investment.

Marianne Braam, who manages the park with husband Peter, said amenity blocks at the popular park remained functional but were ‘overdue’ for redevelopment.

The Braams are working with Northern Grampians Shire Council, with plans also including the installation of an all-abilities family bathroom.

“We will try to make the money stretch as far as possible to get the best outcome,” Mrs Braam said.

“We’ve been very busy and the upgrades, which we expect will be finished by next summer, are very timely. Works are likely to get underway after the holiday season.”

Stawell Grampians Gate Caravan Park provides camping and accommodation services for up to 700 people.

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