Camping grounds seek financial support

SURF Coast camping grounds are hoping for extra financial aid to help them through the challenges caused by COVID-19.

With the federal government currently finalising the 2020/21 budget, The Australian Camps Association has suggested a $20 million industry support fund to help camping grounds.

Angahook Holiday Camp in Aireys Inlet is among those struggling due to the pandemic.

The camp reports it has had cancellations from 14 different schools and groups despite the loosening of lockdown restrictions.

Camp owners Julie and Angus McKenzie said the lack of support has left their business in a precarious position.

“The current situation is having a direct impact on the viability of Angahook Camp and many camps, within the Surf Coast and across Victoria,” they said.

“As of today, we will be shut for at least nine months and possibly for up to 12 months, before a school or group will be back on site.

“The camps industry as sector is in serious financial trouble, with long-term harm being done, and unlike say the airline and other industries – there has been no industry-specific support.”

Federal Labor Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said similar difficulties are being experienced by many other camps in the area.

“Victoria’s camps are almost universally located in regional Victoria. In Anglesea and Aireys Inlet alone, we have 10 camps employing more than 200 – mainly local – people, bringing many thousands of visitors to the area and playing a vital role in boosting the region’s economy,” Ms Coker said.

“Clear support should be given in the form of an industry-wide package – not a concessional loan tying operators to more debt and repayments in such uncertain times.”

The eight camps in Anglesea currently have 80 employees on JobKeeper.