The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) has announced that more than 25,000 free giveaway vouchers are to be released this year, offering experiences and accommodation in the Riverland and Murray River, Lakes and Coorong regions.
Offering values of $50, $100 and $200, the vouchers are to be distributed in three rounds during the year to “Rise up for our River” in 2023 to support tourism operators along the river who have been significantly impacted by the flooding event after many being closed since late last year.
SATC said the campaign showcases iconic river locations, highlights tourism operators along the river and calls on South Australians to throw their support – and dollars – to impacted river communities.
It said that prior to the flooding event in late December 2022, tourism in the two regions was worth a combined $436 million and directly employed 2,800 people across the Riverland and Murray River, Lakes and Coorong.
Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said the Murray River was an incredible natural wonder and encouraged the community to support fellow South Australians in the river communities.
“Just like the post-bushfire #BookThemOut campaign and the successful Great State Voucher program, we are urging South Australians to go and take a holiday for a good cause – this time, to “Rise up for our River” and help tourism operators impacted by this once-in-a-century flooding event, “Ms Bettison said.
“Tourism recovery in the regions has gone from strength to strength with eight consecutive months of record-breaking occupancy, but businesses along the Murray haven’t had a chance to enjoy that strong demand,” she said.
“I implore South Aussies to make sure they register for a River Revival Voucher when they’re available, book a holiday and enjoy everything that is on offer.”
“From wine and food, nature at its best, accommodation from camping and family-friendly caravan parks to 5-star luxury getaways – our river regions have it all,” she said.
According to SATC, registrations for the ballot open on 27 March and close on 29 March.
It said the travel period was from Friday, 31 March 2023, to Tuesday, 29 June 2023 (inclusive), bookable seven days a week, including Saturdays, Easter and the April school holidays.
