School is out!
Here in Victoria, school holidays are already well underway, with many of the other states set to join us at the end of this week.
For many working parents, school holidays can cause a sense of frustration and dread. Juggling how to keep the kids well cared for, entertained and trying to avoid the constant requests of “can I have the iPad,” “I’m hungry” and “she/he hit me!”
But for those lucky enough to sneak in some time off, the school holidays can bring a welcome change in routine; a break from school lunches and after school activities; and some much needed time for relaxation and adventure.
At this time of year many people are packing up and heading north in search of warmer weather or to climb our iconic rock one last time.
And what better place to base yourself, as you get out and explore all our great country has to offer - than a caravan park.
Caravan parks allow fabulous holidays, at affordable prices in some of the best locations in Australia.
Whether you prefer to sleep in a tent, caravan or cabin, caravan parks provide the right mix of facilities and fun to escape the daily grind, switch off from technology, get in touch with nature, reconnect with family and friends and maybe even make some new ones.
It’s no secret that here at Coolabah Turf we are passionate about creating sustainable instant lawn landscape solutions that encourage active living and help to improve our overall health and wellbeing.
Particularly during winter, when we are more inclined to spend large amounts of time indoors, a short break amongst the green grass and trees at a caravan park, can help us to reconnect with the great outdoors, reduce stress and improve our mood.
We have been fortunate to work on a number of turf projects at caravan parks over the years and have seen the way an instant lawn can transform the look and feel of a caravan park.
Instant lawn is the quickest, easiest and most cost effective way to add life, colour, comfort and a sense of calm to an outdoor space and to promote passive play in nature.
At Coolabah Turf we breed low maintenance, low water turf that can help block out weeds and thrives in our hot Australian climate - perfect for caravan parks.
Our turf is also super durable to withstand the wear and tear of campers, pets and busy families on holiday and has an amazing ability to self repair after long hot summers, even with limited water and maintenance for long periods of time due to constant visitors.
Many caravan parks that we work with budget annually for a lawn replacement program to patch up and repair their campsites.
Owners of cabins and permanent caravan site holders also take immense pride in their home away from home and embark on annual landscape projects to enhance the usability of their holiday space.
John Hannon, Asset Coordinator, Discovery Parks - Maidens Inn Moama, understands the value, good quality grass can add to their park by enhancing the customer experience and gaining repeat business.
Maidens Inn Moama, is one of the most popular of all 70 Discovery Parks - and it’s not hard to see why.
The lush green property, located on the banks of the mighty Murray river, with a spectacular new splash park - is a kids paradise, and is also appealing to water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
We worked with Maidens Inn Moama over a number of years to turf around the main marina and beach area, where guests can now sit and watch TV on the big screen, play volleyball, listen to local wildlife and take in the wonder as the historic paddlesteamers and ski boats go by.
We also worked with them to turf a number of powered sites and around the communal BBQ area.
“Everyone loves grass,” John said.
“People pull up to our beautiful grass sites and say - how good is this?”
“Grass is cooler, safer for kids to play on, it feels nicer under foot and helps to reduce the amount of dirt and dust you carry through to your tent or caravan.”
“Our park is pet friendly so visitors also really appreciate the grass for their four legged friends.”
Rod Perry, owner of another popular local park Moama Waters, also loves his lawn and believes installing turf has been a great return on investment for how it makes his park look and feel.
Since taking over the park seven years ago, Rod has lovingly installed turf on all 70 of their ensuite sites, a number of powered sites, around their new villas and also around their pool and waterslide area.
“Our park has a lot of grass.”
“When visitors come here they are pleasantly surprised by the amount of grass we have.”
“Grass looks aesthetically better, it’s better to play on, reduces noise and it creates a more welcoming, comfortable and calming atmosphere.”
“It’s what sets us apart from other caravan parks.”
Rod is also impressed with how their turf has made the maintenance and management of Moama Waters easier.
“The type of turf we have is incredibly hard wearing and comes back really well.”
“It’s not unusual for us to have campers stay with us for up to four weeks at a time so it is imperative for us to have a product that can withstand high use and rebound really quickly.”
“We’re really happy with the product - we think its great!”
So what do you think makes a great caravan park?
Is it the location, facilities, cost or lush green grounds?
Perhaps you have a favourite caravan park from your childhood or one you frequently visit with your own kids now?
If you’re lucky enough to be heading to a caravan park these holidays - we ask you to take a moment to stop and notice what you like about it - but most importantly how it makes you feel.
Does it make you feel relaxed, calm, happy, clear headed, more alive?
We hope so.
Happy holidays!
