Trakmaster tourists provide economic boost
Published on 07 April 2022
A visiting caravan club has injected more than $40,000 into West Wimmera Shire’s economy.
Trakmaster Off-Road Caravan Club had its annual gathering at Kaniva from March 30 to April 6.
The gathering brought about 200 people, including 100 caravans, to the town.
Over the week, club members toured the shire, visited local attractions, and shopped at West Wimmera businesses.
While they were here, they also raised money and donated it to various community groups.
Mayor Bruce Meyer said Kaniva was buzzing the entire week.
“There were people everywhere down the street – all the shops were full, and many businesses extended their trading hours to take advantage of the extra people,” he said.
“It was exceptional to have such an influx of tourists to the shire and they provided an incredible boost to the local economy.”
Many community groups were also given the chance to fundraise through catering for the caravan club during their stay.
Club members raised money during their visit and awarded to the following community groups:
- Kaniva LINK Neighbourhood House - $1000 for a children’s art and multi-media program
- Purple Starfish Community Shop - $1000 for a new cash register and solar light project
- Rogerson Street Community Playground - $960
- Kaniva Community Sporting Complex - $960 for mirrors and an equipment rack
- Kaniva Hockey Club - $960 for fencing and lighting
- Kaniva Gun Club - $960 for toilet doors
Cr Meyer thanked the caravan club members for their generosity.
“They have provided some much-needed funds to many of our community groups, and we are extremely grateful for that,” he said.
Kaniva businesses were encouraged to decorate their shop windows for the Trakmaster gathering.
Gary Mills Plumbing’s display was voted best window by club members, followed by the Salvation Army.
Cr Meyer said it was great to see all the local businesses getting behind the event.
He said he would welcome the club back again anytime.
“Their time here has been invaluable to many businesses and community groups,” he said.
“The best thing they can do for West Wimmera Shire now, is to tell their friends that it is a great place to visit.”
The Trakmaster gathering capped off a week of extremely successful events in West Wimmera Shire.
On Saturday night, the Ensemble Theatre’s production of Black Cockatoo was performed at Harrow to a sold-out crowd.
On Sunday, more than 100 dachshunds and their owners descended on Edenhope for the second annual Day of the Dackel.
Cr Meyer said it was great to see so many events happening in West Wimmera Shire.
“All of these events managed to bring tourists to our shire, which is fantastic to see,” he said.
“We hope more and more people will travel here in the future and take advantage of the wonderful things we have to offer.”
Trakmaster Off-road Caravan Club’s next gathering will be in Narramine, NSW, in 2023.