When CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE hears about about new campgrounds being set up by teenagers, we think it is worthwhile sharing the story. Kadee Clarke (pictured on the right) told me it is best to list the phone number of her business partner, Hannah (her older brother’s girlfriend, on the left in the photo) – because Kadee was still at school!
“My family and I are based at Edgehill Farm in Riverton, South Australia,” said Kadee. “I am currently in year 12 at Faith Lutheran College in the Barossa and Hannah works at the local emporium bakehouse in Riverton, and in her spare time works on our family farm.”
Merino sheep and cereal grain farmers, around 5000 sheep graze on their two outback blocks whilst the crops grow.
She admits they have had help from their parents, “My father came up with the idea to start our own camping business – using resources we already have.”
And it is good pocket money: “We started with just Edgehill Farms in August 2017 and then expanded to our two other properties Bundey Bore Station and Burra Creek Camping. During the lead up to the October long weekend we had to add three extra sites at Burra Creek due to the high demand in camping!”
Her parents are proud of their new enterprise, “My grandparents especially were thrilled. They bought the property that we live on approximately 35 years ago and have always wanted to share our property with others.
Each farmstay offers what they describe as a ‘drop and listen’ toilet, is dog friendly (as long as they don’t chase sheep), little mobile phone coverage and sites are spread out ensuring privacy. Some properties have power or are 4WD access only with creek crossings.
Edgehill Farm is surrounded by two wine regions, Clare Valley and the Barossa Valley, which has its own drawcard, even a winery cycling route. “We are on the foot of the hills, meaning campers can walk to the top of the range and enjoy views of the surrounding towns.”
The properties at Burra Creek (where on occasion there can be water in the creek, depending on rainfall) and Bundey Bore are quite remote, Kadee says campers have loved the peace and quiet.
“Both of our outback blocks host a range of wildlife. Wombats, kangaroos, rabbits, hares, reptiles and emus are among these. Approximately 10 years ago David Attenborough visited our property to research and film the sleepy lizards!”
And what else to do whilst you are there? Birdwatching, mountain biking, horse riding and bushwalking are some of the suggested activities. you can take the tracks are already there, that the family have used over many years.
Of course, the policy is to take your rubbish with you, “So far we have had no trouble with the campers that have camped on our properties. They are expected to leave no trace, leaving our property respected.”
Plans for next year include a move to Adelaide to study midwifery. Isn’t it great that our camping can help further careers?
Find out more: www.facebook.com/Edgehillfarmstays/ or call Hannah on 0477 087 709.
Find out more about budget and free camping sites, or caravan parks throughout Australia – take advantage of our 15% discount by entering the following coupon at the checkout: directcaw9.
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