Tragedy-stricken town issues heartfelt appeal as bushfires take heavy toll

In the wake of devastating bushfires, a bushfire-stricken town in Victoria is extending a heartfelt invitation to tourists to help breathe life back into their community after suffering losses running into the millions.

As the smoke clears and the natural beauty of this tourist hotspot begins to shine through once again, there’s a unique opportunity for travellers to make a real difference.

Halls Gap is known for spectacular falls and stunning views. Image Source: Pexels / Matilda Iglesias

For 21 days over the festive season, fires blazed through the Wimmera region in the picturesque town of Halls Gap in the Grampians, Victoria, and have significantly affected the livelihood of business operators in the area.

Josephina McDonald, owner of Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park, knows all too well the impact the fires have had. With the inferno coming within a hair’s breadth of her establishment, she faced the heart-wrenching task of cancelling 738 bookings, affecting hundreds of families and their holiday plans.

The park, which can host up to 500 guests, is now operating at less than 19 per cent capacity. Yet, Josephina remains optimistic, assuring visitors that it’s ‘business as usual’ in their town famed for its breathtaking vistas, scenic trails, and vibrant wildlife.

‘The kangaroos and emus are still sitting in exactly the same spot, the cockatoos will still wake you up at five o’clock,’ she said.

‘Coming to the Grampians is really a win-win. This area is one of the most beautiful nature-based tourist destinations—and it’s an affordable holiday as well.’Adrian Manikas, who runs Absolute Outdoors adventure tours, echoes Josephina’s sentiments. The fires may have scorched 76,000 hectares of land and cost his business over $100,000, but his spirit remains unbroken.

While Adrian admits that it is a challenging time for them, he is confident that they ‘have the ability to operate at 100 per cent capacity.’

‘We’ve got our staff here, our locations are open. We choose to live and work here for a purpose and that purpose is to share this place with people who come and visit, so it’s going to take more than that to scare us off,’ he said.

The Halls Gap community may be resilient and determined to recover, but the reality is that several roads are still closed, and some areas remain an active fire ground. However, the recent reopening of key routes into the town is a beacon of hope for a fresh start.

Are you ready to add the Grampians to your travel bucket list? Image Source: Pexels / Kampus Production

For those considering a trip to the Grampians, you will not only be rewarded with the natural splendour of one of Australia’s most stunning nature-based tourist destinations, but you will also be contributing to the recovery of a community that has faced adversity head-on.

This is your chance to enjoy an unforgettable holiday while supporting local businesses and families in their time of need. But before you pack your bags, make sure to check the latest updates on the Vic Emergency website to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 

Our YourLifeChoices readers, have you visited the Grampians before? How was your trip?

Or, are you now adding it to your travel bucket list to experience the ultimate feel-good trip of a lifetime? Share your thoughts in the comments section!

Also read: Things for the over-50s to do in Australia’s top tourist town

Floralyn Teodoro
Floralyn Teodoro
Floralyn covers different topics such as health, lifestyle, and home improvement, among many others. She is also passionate about travel and mindful living.

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