What We Heard for Caravan Park Master Plan
Published on 16 April 2025
Community feedback is helping shape the long-term future of the Kennett River Family Caravan Park with the release of the Engagement Report for the draft Caravan Park Master Plan.
The 10-year vision outlines sustainable, family-friendly upgrades that preserve the park’s natural charm while improving the visitor experience, environmental outcomes, and site functionality.
Developed alongside the broader Precinct Plan, the Caravan Park Master Plan includes infrastructure upgrades to enhance safety, accessibility, and the natural environment.
These future works are separate from the current infrastructure upgrades (such as the wastewater treatment plant and new public toilet) funded through the Geelong City Deal.
Between 3 and 23 March 2025, community members—including park users, residents, and visitors—were invited to share their thoughts via online surveys, four online information sessions, and outreach through flyers, social media, and stakeholder emails.
The draft Master Plan received 46 survey responses, with more than 1,000 visits to the project page and 65 participants joining the online sessions.
Respondents appreciated the focus on environmental sustainability and modern facilities, viewing these as overdue upgrades.
Sustainability initiatives received strong community support, with 84% backing increased rainwater capture, 82% endorsing greywater reuse, and 75% agreeing that the upgraded Wastewater Treatment Plant would benefit Kennett River.
Key features supported include stormwater harvesting and sustainable water use (87%), improved infrastructure for staff and maintenance (65%), better pedestrian links to the surrounding precinct (63%), and a new amenities precinct featuring an amenity block, camp kitchen, and nature-based playground (55%).
Feedback revealed a strong desire for a safer, more accessible playground, with some participants advocating for a more minimalistic approach to retain the relaxed, natural feel that Kennett River is known for.
Respondents held mixed views over the introduction of the walking trail, with several citing the potential loss of green space and issues related to camper safety and privacy.
These insights will be carefully considered as we refine the draft Caravan Park Master Plan, ensuring that improvements enhance the visitor experience without compromising the park’s natural character and the comfort of its users.
Many upgrades—including new cabins, roads, and amenities—will be subject to available funding and future grant opportunities.
The feedback gathered will now be used to help refine the draft Caravan Park Master Plan as the project progresses to detailed planning and feasibility assessment.
Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Acting CEO Andy Mathers:
"Through community input, we’re shaping a ten-year vision for the caravan park that balances comfort, sustainability, accessibility, and environmental responsibility while staying true to the relaxed, natural feel of Kennett River.”
“A huge thank you to everyone who provided feedback—we’re excited to continue working together on this vision."