The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) has recently revealed its river recovery plan, aimed at supporting communities affected by the once-in-a-century Murray River flood.
The $4.6 million plan includes a marketing campaign and a voucher program dubbed “Rise up for our River.” The campaign is set to launch in March 2023, with a teaser to be released on TV, print, outdoor, digital, and social media platforms, as per a report by Glam Adelaide.
Over 25,000 vouchers, valued at $50, $100, and $200, will be distributed in three rounds, with the first round to be available in April, May, and June 2023. The vouchers can be redeemed for experiences and accommodations in the Riverland and Murray River, Lakes & Coorong regions.
In rounds two and three, a $750 houseboat voucher will be introduced, allowing South Australians to plan a houseboat holiday during the winter and spring months when houseboats are expected to be fully operational.
Tourism operators along the river have been significantly impacted by the flood, with many closing since late 2022. The voucher program will help revive the tourism industry, with the first round of vouchers aimed at boosting travel during the Easter break and April school holidays.
The inclusion of caravan park sites in the voucher program is a first for SATC, offering thousands of additional options in the region as the larger parks reopen.
The “Rise up for our River” campaign is set to showcase iconic river locations and highlight tourism operators along the river, urging South Australians to support impacted communities. Registrations for the voucher program will open on March 27 and close on March 29, with the travel period from March 31 to June 29, 2023.
A $500,000 fund will be provided for a further round aimed at supporting businesses that are yet to reopen, such as those in the Mid-Murray Council region.
Premier Peter Malinauskas has stated that the government has committed $190 million to drive the recovery of the Riverland region. Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison has encouraged South Australians to register for the voucher program and enjoy the diverse range of experiences and accommodations offered by the river regions.
The SATC’s river recovery plan is a positive step forward for the tourism industry and a way for South Australians to support communities affected by the flood.
With great people, diverse experiences, and exceptional accommodation options, the Riverland is poised to welcome visitors and showcase its offerings.
Ever thought about joining the Rise up for our River campaign? It’s a chance to back the flood recovery and experience the beauty of the Murray River firsthand!