Kaniva set to welcome travellers during AFL Gather Round

Published on 31 March 2026

Kaniva is preparing to welcome an increase in visitors during the upcoming AFL Gather Round, with temporary camping and community events planned at the Kaniva Recreation Reserve.

At an unscheduled meeting on Wednesday, West Wimmera Shire Council approved an initiative to offer free RV and self-contained camping at the reserve from 8 to 14 April 2026.

This will provide a convenient stopover for travellers journeying along the Western Highway between Melbourne and Adelaide.

The initiative is led by the Kaniva Leeor United Football Netball Club, which will host a series of community hospitality events throughout the week.

These include a schnitzel night and a community barbecue.

The Gather Round, held annually in Adelaide and regional South Australian, is expected to drive increased traffic across regional routes, positioning Kaniva as an ideal midway stop.

Mayor Tim Meyer praised the Kaniva Leeor United Football Netball Club for their proactive approach to regional tourism.

“This is a fantastic idea,” he said.

“Without these arrangements, many travellers wouldn’t stop in Kaniva at all.

“Last year, Kaniva attracted media coverage from Channel 9 during Gather Round, providing excellent promotion for the town.

“This builds on that success, and I’m very supportive of it.”

Council officers will work alongside the football netball club to ensure the reserve is appropriately managed during the period, including coordination of waste services, traffic oversight, and risk management.

These temporary arrangements support Council’s broader objectives to encourage community participation, activate local spaces, and promote regional visitation.