With interstate and overseas travel off limits, tourists have flocked to the Riverland over the June long weekend — lining the hip pockets of local businesses.
Gary and Grace Musolino drove to the Riverland from Adelaide for a three-day camping getaway, pitching their tent on the banks of the River Murray in Paringa.
Ms Musolino said the easing of COVID-19 restrictions provided a perfect opportunity for a holiday in "South Australia's backyard".
"You don't know what you've got until it's gone. It's really is nice to see everyone smiling at each other here," she said.
"People didn't used to smile; people didn't look at each other. And now we do."
The Wheare and Welke family travelled to the same camping spot from Maitland and Blyth.
"We were going to come up here over Easter but that was cancelled because of COVID-19," Rowan Welke said.
"It doesn't matter if it's freezing, the kids still want to go in the water.
"It's good to have our freedom back."
For caravan park managers, Catherine and Brett Hein, the long weekend has brought a boost — both financially and emotionally.
"We're almost fully booked," Ms Hein said.
"Everyone here is relieved to finally get away and everyone is so full of joy, just having a campfire, having a drink and relaxing.
"We have people saying they're looking to re-book for every June long weekend now … they're going to return this time next year."
More than 80 kilometres away, the Waikerie Hotel Motel has proved popular with locals and tourists.
"In a normal situation, without the restrictions, we would have up to 250 people on a Friday or a Saturday night so we're limiting ourselves," manager Andrew Tyson said.
"But we've seated 80 people every day this long weekend. It's been really positive.
"We had good takeaway trade from the caravan park, which is full of tourists.
"It's really nice to see people support the regions by coming out this long weekend."
Local tourism expert Tony Sharley said he expected more tourists to travel to the Riverland over the coming months, as social restrictions eased but borders remained closed.
"South Australians spend $3.3 billion a year travelling overseas … some of that is going to be spent here in South Australia," he said.
"I think we will see an influx of travel into areas like the Riverland.
"Our winter weather is just so mild. We have beautiful sunny days in June, July and August."
"There are campfires on the riverbank, there's the good opportunity to walk along the water's edge, taste some wines, and move around our towns."
