2 Jun 2020
In his 12 months with Discovery Parks, Sean Goggin, Park Manager at Discovery Parks - Maidens Inn Moama, has become an expert in local knowledge to help his guests get the most out of their holiday by the river.
While most people have heard of Moama, where ‘Maidens Inn’ comes from is often a question on visitor’s lips. Sean tells us it’s all part of the region’s rich local history: “Maidens Inn was named after James Maiden, who was a dubious character in Echuca-Moama’s history. He operated a local punt that would ferry people across the river and the old punt site is located at park, along with the remains of a pub that he built.”
When he’s not working, Sean enjoys golfing and fishing. “A fishing rod is essential when you come and stay with us!” he says. It’s pretty unique that the park has one of the longest natural beaches in the local region, and if you’re bringing your own boat you can make use of Sean’s’ favourite in-park feature, the marina. “I love the marina area where guests can tie up their boats and walk straight into their cabin.”
If you’re keen to hit the river but don’t have a boat of your own, Sean recommends hiring a BBQ pontoon from the park and spending a day exploring the might Murray River. Just an hour cruise away you can stop for a long lunch at Cape Horn Winery, one of the region’s best locations.
Maidens Inn is full of facilities for the whole family including swimming pool, jumping pillow, playground and Sean’s daughters’ favourite feature – the water park. Sean’s top tip for travellers wanting to find the best site within the park is to call and have a chat. “Our staff are experts on each site and speaking to them first will make sure you find the perfect site for your needs.”
And that moustache? Sean says it’s a bet with his staff and it has to stay until COVID restrictions are lifted and the whole park team is back on deck. “Hopefully it is not too much longer otherwise my wife may leave me!”
Quick Q&A with Sean
Has anyone famous ever stayed in the park?
We recently had Merv Hughes come and stay with us while he was filming his fishing show in the local area.
Where’s the best local place to grab a bite?
The Royal is a great local pub to go to, and often has live bands.
If you hosted a BBQ in the Camp Kitchen, who are the top 3 guests you would invite and why?
My Assistant Managers and Caretakers to say thanks for all their hard work over the last couple of months.
Other than your park, what is your favourite park in the Discovery Park network and why?
I really like Discovery Parks - Geelong, a great manager and close proximity to Geelong’s home ground!
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Ready for your Murray River holiday at Maidens Inn?
