The new Discovery Parks – Goolwa was officially unveiled today, with the Stage 1 completion of a $22 million investment featuring a splash park, new swimming pool, outdoor cinema, coastal nature playground and modern new accommodation.

Purchased by the G’day Group in late 2020, the major investment into the park has been supported by the South Australian Tourism Commission with a $500,000 grant as part of its Tourism Industry Development Fund.

The property has been designed as a holiday haven for families. Along with modern cabins, there are 110 new powered sites for caravan and campers, including some patio sites with exclusive-use fire pits and barbecues (winter only) along with a new alfresco camp kitchen.

The Goolwa development is part of the G’day Group’s $40 million vision to boost day trips in the Fleurieu region, with a range of family friendly activities including a golf tourism development at the McCracken Country Club.

Chief Executive of the G’day Group, Grant Wilckens, said the park will become a key attraction on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

“We’re thrilled with how the property has taken shape. We’ve near doubled the amount of accommodation available, and this will bring more tourists into Goolwa who will spend locally,” said Grant.

“With a splash park and pool, nature play and an outdoor cinema, there’s a lot to keep the kids entertained so the adults can sit back and relax. The beach is a stone’s throw away and for those wanting to explore the region, our nearby McCracken property will soon offer experiences like mini golf. These dual property investments will really help to entice tourists to the Fleurieu region,” said Grant.

South Australian Tourism Commission chief executive, Rodney Harrex said the new accommodation and visitor experiences at Goolwa – and more to come for Victor Harbor – will help meet continued strong regional tourism demand.

“Through the pandemic, we’ve seen record-breaking regional occupancy rates as more South Australians explore their own backyard,” said Mr Harrex.

“The redeveloped Discovery Parks Goolwa is one of 114 projects across SA supported by our Tourism Industry Development Fund and is sensational news for the Fleurieu Peninsula – it will entice more visitors to the region, convert day trips into overnight stays, and drive expenditure as the Fleurieu tracks toward its 2025 target of $643 million.”

Alexandrina Council Mayor Keith Parkes said he is excited to see the recent visitor growth in the Alexandrina region and this development and improved facilities will fill a current gap in the market and bring more visitors.

‘The increased accommodation capacity and quality of offering of this park will boost growth and economic prospects for the township while creating jobs throughout Alexandrina as tourists use as a base to explore and enjoy our magnificent region.

This project along with other major projects in Goolwa such as the new Oval Recreation Precinct and revitalisation of the Wharf precinct, along with infrastructure upgrades a Goolwa Beach make it an exciting time for tourists to visit and stay longer,’ he said.

Stage two of the development will include an indoor pool, three large holiday houses and further upgrades to internal roads.

Guests at Goolwa and McCracken will have reciprocal access to the waterparks at both properties free of charge and day passes will be available for locals when there is capacity.