In the heart of rural Australia, where the road stretches out like a ribbon through the vast landscape, there lies a hidden gem that's capturing the hearts and imaginations of tourists and locals alike. The Coonalpyn Caravan Park, southeast of Adelaide, has become the talk of the town, not just for its serene setting and top-notch facilities, but for an ingenious feature that's leaving visitors absolutely amazed.

Nestled among the natural beauty of the Coorong District, this caravan park offers the usual amenities one would expect: a refreshing swimming pool to beat the Australian heat, BBQs perfect for a sizzling feast under the stars, and a playground where laughter echoes through the air. But it's the park's 'very clever' detail that's causing quite the stir—a detail that's as practical as it is innovative.


Imagine pulling up to your campsite after a long day's journey, weary but excited to rest and recharge. At Coonalpyn Caravan Park, you're greeted not just by the welcoming smiles of fellow campers but by the convenience of modern technology seamlessly integrated into the great outdoors. Here, EFTPOS machines stand ready at powered sites and in the bathrooms, offering a simple tap-and-go payment system for power and hot water.


'It's free to stop and camp, $15 if you want to connect to power, free water, free toilets and $5 if you want a hot shower,' explained an Aussie tourist, who, along with their partner, was among the many who have praised this 'clever idea'. The payWave systems ensure that when you swipe your card for power, you're set until 11 am the next morning—ample time to enjoy your stay without the rush.


The Coorong District Council, with an eye on innovation and visitor satisfaction, installed 18 payWave units at the park in early 2023. CEO Bridget Mather confirmed this addition, which complements the more than 20 additional unpowered sites offered free of charge. Since January 2022, hot showers have also been just a tap away, with a $5 fee activating the hot water for a five-minute period.

This shift from the traditional 'honesty box' system, which was vulnerable to theft and non-payment, to a payWave 'user pays' system, has brought a multitude of benefits. It has reduced the risk of theft, provided an easy and contemporary payment method for campers, and allowed for accurate reporting on visitation, ensuring the park's sustainability and continued improvement.

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Hundreds of travelers have taken to social media to describe the tap-and-go system as a 'very smart idea'. 'What an awesome, simple process, love it!' exclaimed one visitor, while another highlighted the potential for this system to be a boon for small towns, ensuring guaranteed revenue without the hassle of cash handling.


The Coonalpyn Caravan Park is more than just a place to park your caravan; it's a beacon of how small towns can innovate to attract and cater to tourists. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most ingenious solutions are the simplest ones.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, have you encountered any such clever conveniences in your travels? Have you visited caravan parks that have taken a step into the future with such user-friendly systems? Share your stories and let us know if you think this is a trend that should catch on across Australia's many picturesque caravan parks. Your insights are not only valuable to us but could inspire other communities to follow in the footsteps of Coonalpyn's forward-thinking approach.