Why It’s So Important to Keep
Supporting South Australia’s Coastal Towns
While the recent algal bloom has made some South Australians hesitant to head for the coast, the message from locals is clear, our beaches are open, safe, and as stunning as ever. From the Fleurieu to the Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas, our seaside towns are still buzzing with small businesses, local hospitality, and friendly faces ready to welcome you.
Travelling Now Matters
Tourism is the heartbeat of regional South Australia. When visitors pause their travels, small businesses feel it almost immediately. From the bakery that sells an extra dozen pasties to the motel that fills its rooms, every dollar makes a difference.
Now more than ever, continuing to travel safely and respectfully is going to help keep our coastal towns vibrant, support local jobs, and ensure that the coast remains the welcoming, thriving destination we all love.
Locals Say It Best
During on of our recent On the Road with FIVEAA segments to Normanville, Ned McHenry summed it up perfectly:
“The money you spend in South Australia, it stays in South Australia,” Ned said. When you book that weekend away, grab a pub meal, or fill up at the local servo, you’re directly supporting our neighbours, our regional towns, and the people who make SA such a special place.
We also caught up with Kenton from the Normanville Surf Life Saving Club, who shared how important the support of visitors means to the locals. In order to keep the community going, they need people to keep visiting, to come down, grab a coffee, walk the beach, enjoy the new surf club, it all helps our community stay strong.
How You Can Help
- Spread the Word: Share your experiences online to help show that SA’s coastal towns are open and thriving.
- Buy SA seafood: Keep supporting our local South Australian fisheries and purchase our delicious and fresh local seafood.
- Take a Coastal Day Trip: Jump in the car for a spontaneous road trip. Even if you don’t plan to swim, there’s still plenty to see, scenic lookouts, walking trails, art galleries, farmers markets, and historic jetties. A tank of fuel and a picnic in a seaside park goes a long way for small towns.
- Share Positive Stories: Social media is powerful. Post photos, tag local businesses, and share your positive experiences. A simple “Normanville is open and beautiful!” or “Support local SA” post helps spread the word that these towns are still thriving.
- Shop Local: Visit local markets, dine at coastal pubs, and buy from small producers.
- Book a Local Stay: Accommodation providers have been hit hard, so even a quick weekend getaway helps. Look for short stays, winter specials, or Travel Auctions packages that feature coastal regions, it’s the best way to support operators directly.
At Travel Auctions, we’re proud to stand behind our state’s regional operators, from the Fleurieu to the Eyre Peninsula, helping South Australians discover their own backyard while keeping tourism dollars right here at home.
Now really is the time to get out and support our coastal communities. Every visit, every meal, every night’s stay helps.
Bid. Win. Go. Support local SA.