30,000 South Australian travel vouchers are up for grabs

South Australia is welcoming more travellers this summer, with a new round of coastal travel vouchers across dining, accommodation and experiences.

A new round of South Australian travel vouchers and dining vouchers is being released in a ballot system to help soothe the sting to local tourism in algal bloom-affected areas.

The Algal bloom

three friends sitting on Port Willunga Beach Fleurieu Peninsula south australia — South Australia’s coastline is still safe for humans. (Image: SATC)

The current algal bloom in South Australia is affecting much of the coastline, especially the Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula, Kangaroo Island and the Spencer Gulf.

While algae and even blooms of algae are a natural part of coastal ecosystems, the current bloom in South Australia is toxic to fish and some other marine animals. As a result, both marine life and the industries that rely on it (fishing, aquaculture and tourism) are seeing a serious negative impact. However, it is still safe for humans to swim in SA beaches , provided they avoid discoloured and/or foamy water (which may cause mild, short-term irritation).

This current algal bloom phenomenon came about as a result of floodwaters from the River Murray in 2022-23, a cold-water upwelling in summer 2023-24 and a marine heatwave that has been happening since September 2024. Each event brought extra nutrients to the sea and then lifted them to the surface.

In response, a $102.5 million Algal Bloom Summer Plan was announced by the South Australian and Australian governments, including measures to protect the marine environment and back coastal communities.

Travel vouchers

seal pups on Seal Bay Conservation Park Kangaroo Island south australia — Catch the ferry to Kangaroo Island with the experience vouchers. (Image: Kangaroo Island Tourism Alliance)

Open to South Australians, 30,000 travel vouchers of up to $500 for accommodation and $100 for experiences in coastal destinations will be up for grabs. It comes as a bigger, extended round of the popular Coast is Calling travel voucher program (with the first round having been announced in August).

This round will expand on the first to also include qualifying holiday rentals, the Kangaroo Island ferry and additional experiences, including guided sporting experiences and additional leisure and entertainment activities. As well as an extended period of travel between December 5 and April 26.

Accommodation vouchers are intended to encourage longer stays, worth $500 for a five-night minimum stay, $200 for a two-night minimum stay and $100 for a one-night minimum stay.

“These vouchers are helping local businesses bounce back, driving tourism and keeping regional economies strong right across the state’s coastline," said Minister for the Environment, Murray Watt . “This program is about more than just holidays – it’s about supporting jobs, small businesses and the communities that make South Australia’s coast such a special part of the country".

“Another 30,000 vouchers released for summer will be a game-changer for many coastal businesses who rely on this holiday period to set themselves up for the rest of the year," added Minister for Multicultural Affairs of South Australia, Zoe Bettison.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Dining vouchers

womand and her child walking at Dolphin Bay Yorke Peninsula — It’s the perfect time for a family getaway. (Image: Carly Kruger)

A $15 million dining program in the form of 300,000 $50 dining vouchers to be used at coastal dining venues – including restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs and takeaway venues – will give travellers the ability to get $50 cashback on their meal. Using the voucher, travellers can upload their meal receipt from a participating business along with their unique voucher code to receive 50 per cent off their meal, up to $50.

“We’re currently seeing the impact a voucher program can make, with the first round of Coast is Calling Vouchers already injecting over $2.7 million in booking value alone into communities impacted by the algal bloom," said Bettison.

How to enter the ballot

South Australian travellers can enter the dining public ballot on the Coast is Calling website . From 3 November 2025, 60,000 vouchers will be on offer in this first round. Subsequent ballots will be drawn in December, January, February and March.

A ballot for travel vouchers will open from 1-3 December, to be drawn on December 4. Voucher winners will need to book by January 19, and can be used for travel between 5 December and 26 April.

More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.

Perhaps best known as a road trip stop between Sydney and Melbourne, Albury Wodonga offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene that make it well worth its own journey.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and surrounded by famed wine and gold rush regions, this riverside town packs a broad punch. Discover how best to spend your days on the border.

Exploring the Murray River

1. The Crossing Place Trail

woman looking at sculpture along Crossing Place Trail loop — Admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists.

Head to the original crossing places of the Murray River since 1848 – at the junctions of Bungambrawatha Creek and Oddies Creek. Today, these crossings are still used by cars and cattle, but the five-kilometre Crossing Place Trail loop connects the two bridges for bike riders and walkers.

Wander through gum trees, and maybe even spot local platypus and birdlife. Stop along the way to admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists, see evidence of a scar tree and learn about the importance of this billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

2. Canoe The Murray

two people kayaking along the murray river at Noreuil Park — Hire canoes or kayaks and get out on the river.

What better way to get a feel for the Murray River than by getting out on its waters? Hire canoes or kayaks from Canoe the Murray , then explore solo or join one of the offered tours. Get up early for a Sunrise and coffee tour, watch the sun dip below the water on a sunset tour or choose one of several daytime trips.

Stand-up paddleboard hire and other water sports, fishing and swimming are also available to river explorers.

3. Noreuil Park Foreshore

aerial of Noreuil Park albury wodonga — Cool off at Noreuil Park Foreshore. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Albury’s CBD, the riverside Noreuil Park becomes a hub of activity as the weather heats up. Set up on picnic tables under shady trees, use the public barbecues (or pop into the nearby cafe) and cool off with a float down the river.

4. Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works

Mungabareena Reserve albury wodonga — Spend time at Mungabareena Reserve. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Delve into nature and culture at the beautiful Mungabareena Reserve . Recognised by state law as a ‘Declared Aboriginal Place’, it was once a historical meeting point for trade and journeys to Mount Bogong for the local Wiradjuri people and still holds deep significance.

It’s another popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnics, while the nearby Water Works area is a great place for spotting wildlife. Try your luck seeing platypuses, wood ducks or rainbow bee-eaters.

Adventuring on Lake Hume

1. Walk the dam wall

parent and child look at the view from the damn wall walk at lake hume — Enjoy the view from the dam wall. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The majestic Lake Hume – a massive man-made reservoir on the Murray River – was once the largest dam in the Southern Hemisphere.

A great way to get acquainted is by walking along the dam wall, taking in views of outflows, electricity turbines and the transmission plant from above. Not to mention vistas of the lake and the Murray. It’s a particularly gorgeous spot for sunsets and sunrises.

A wide sealed walkway gives easy access to the wall, and informative signs and displays along the way educate on the dam’s construction.

2. The High Country Rail Trail

This 44-kilometre trail hugs the shoreline. Stop along the way at the historic town of Tallangatta, relocated to its current position in the 1950s after its original location was flooded. Cross the lake over the bright red Sandy Creek Bridge. Enjoy a lakeside picnic or go for a swim at Ebden, Ludlow’s or Huon Reserve.

3. Water sports

two people watching SUP boarders and a boat our on the water at lake hume — Dive into water sports on Lake Hume.

Lake Hume is a popular local spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Drop a line or dive right into the clear waters.

Sip and Savour

1. Dux Albury

two people sitting at counter drinking wine inside Dux Albury — Sit down to delicious meals and wine at Dux.

Those looking for a high-end dining experience need to book a table at Dux Albury in the heart of Albury Wodonga. Sit down for curated wine lists, cocktails and share plates. Think starters like burrata with beetroot, chervil, caper berry and sherry, mains like Wagyu sirloin with Café De Paris, red wine and caramelised onions and all manner of fresh seafood.

2. Murray Towns Brewing Co.

people being served lunch at Murray Brewing Co. — Recharge at Murray Brewing Co.

Perched on the banks of the river, Murray Towns Brewing Co . has come a long way since two mates started experimenting in their backyard chook shed. With all beer brewed onsite and a sun-drenched beer garden to drink them in, it’s a perfect stop along a bike ride or walk.

3. Temperance and General

Step into Albury’s original laneway bar, Temperance and General . Set inside a historic building, but offering a modern vibe, the bar is locally famous for its cocktail list. Stop in before or after dinner for a creative tipple.

4. BeanStation Cafe

two people drinking coffee at Bean Station albury wodonga — Dine on a modern Australian menu.

Dine on a modern Australian menu , inside the historic Wodonga train station building, dating back to 1873. Pop over in the morning and line up with the locals for great coffee and all-day brekkie, or head over after midday to swap the beans for local wines and Aussie boutique beers.

5. River Deck Cafe

waiter holding two dishes at Riverdeck Cafe albury wodonga — Soak in views and good food at Riverdeck Cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another dining destination next to the Murray, the award-winning River Deck Cafe provides a large deck covered in dappled sunlight that makes for the ideal long lunch spot. Here, menus focus on natural, native and local ingredients sourced from regional farmers and producers across Albury Wodonga and surrounds.

Museums, murals and more

1. Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail

Gain a sense of Albury Wodonga’s vibrant arts community while wandering the Public Art Trail. Works range from sculptures and murals to wrapped infrastructure. Be sure to check the council map before you head out, so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA)

couple admiring the art at Murray Art Gallery — Stop into one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

MAMA forms the heart of art and culture in Albury Wodonga, some may say the entire Murray region. In fact, it’s one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. What makes it so lauded? The museum has earned a reputation for curating innovative, original exhibitions from some of the best contemporary Australian and international artists.

3. HotHouse Theatre

Originally built in 1928 as the Butter Factory Theatre, HotHouse Theatre has been a home of performance since 1997. Stop by to see the best of new Australian theatre. Continue to explore unique architecture on the Historic Building Walking Tour of Albury, the perfect way to round out your stay.

Start planning your Albury Wodonga getaway at visitalburywodonga.com.

30,000 South Australian travel vouchers worth up to $500 are up for grabs

South Australia is welcoming more travellers this summer, with a new round of coastal travel vouchers across dining, accommodation and experiences.

The Algal bloom

Travel vouchers

Dining vouchers

How to enter the ballot

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More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.