Big response to free overnighters

Free overnight camping is likely to become permanent in Bunbury due to the “overwhelmingly positive response” to a trial, according to Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan.

The trial was put in place to entice self-contained RV travellers and Grey Nomads, who preferred to camp for short periods, into Bunbury.

Within 12 months of the trial the city estimated about $227,000 had been spent by 823 people who had received permits for the overnight rest areas.

“We have managed to tap into a market that would otherwise bypass Bunbury … this is a large market which we previously were unable to tap into,” Mr Brennan said.

“We are only half way through the trial and we expect we may have to make some minor changes, however it is likely to continue after the trial based on the feedback we have received so far.”

More than 69 per cent of visitors utilising the overnight rest areas are from interstate and almost 40 per cent are 65 years of age or older, according to the City of Bunbury.

When the trial started it was promoted through digital channels, print media and travel applications.

But Mr Brennan said they started to notice travellers were hearing about Bunbury through word-of-mouth by other travellers who had stopped.

“The more people who find out about this paradise we call home the better it is for Bunbury and those who live here,” he said.

“Once in Bunbury they add vibrancy to the city centre as well as inject cash into our local economy by refuelling their vehicles, having repairs done, buying groceries, enjoying a coffee or bite to eat.”

The city is conducting a survey of residents who live close to the rest areas. The survey closes on December 5.