Camping Melrose - Kookaburra Creek Retreat

About Us

Kookaburra Creek is a truly unique and special place.
Located on Nukunu land, our privately owned bush property of 80acres is situated at the base of the beautiful Mount Remarkable with National Park on three sides.                                                                                      Our little sanctuary has remained in our family for over 45 years, which is pretty special in itself. Over those years Kookaburra Creek has hosted many gatherings and events, from weddings to Vietnam Veteran retreats, Art and Craft Workshops and Spiritual Gatherings, shared with friends and families, creating treasured life long memories.
We wish for our guests to take time out for themselves, to experience the tranquillity and peace of the natural bushland. This is an opportunity for some quality time in a natural and relaxed atmosphere.

Our Retreat is 10 kms north of Melrose situated at the base of the beautiful Mt Remarkable, in the Southern Flinders Ranges.                                                                                                                                            Kookaburra Creek is centrally located in South Australia, 274 kms or 3 hrs easy drive from Adelaide.                                                                                                                                                                                                          We offer a range of unique, self-contained dwellings to suit individuals, couples, families or groups, with plenty of room to explore the outdoor wonders of nature.                                                                                          We can accommodate up to 18 people comfortably or 14 single people.
An ideal space for 3-4 families.

Larger groups can be accommodated if you bring caravans or tents.
Bush camping is offered during our Non-Fire Ban Season only.
The Retreat is well-equipped with everything you need for self-catering, making it a fantastic set-up for groups.

“A place to get away from it all with all the facilities you need. Comfortable beds with bunks for the kids if needed, but the real highlight is the outdoor facilities such as BBQ’s fire pit and various areas to relax and chat.”
(Tripadvisor Review)

There is so much natural beauty to be explored and discovered, from creeks and gorges and mountains to climb. We have easy walking trails on the property and into the National Park next door. Enjoy a relaxing bush walk, which will be sure to awaken your senses. Springtime brings out a magical array of colourful wild flowers.

From July to October, observe carefully and you will discover many different varieties of orchids. We have discovered up to 12 different varieties here on our property.

There are seasonal creeks on the property and in the National Park. Through Winter and Spring we enjoy the trickling water making it’s way down through the property. There are numerous hiking trails including The Heysen Trail nearby for the enthusiastic. Only 20 mins drive from the Retreat you’ll find the spectacular Alligator Gorge.

Just 40 mins drive away you’ll find Devil’s Peak, Mt Brown and Dutchman’s Stern. These locations offer some of the most incredible hikes in the Southern Flinders.

“You feel like you’re miles away from the rest of the world yet Melrose is just a 10km drive if you want a proper coffee or a pub meal. You can do as much or as little as you want.”
(Tripadvisor Review)

The local area is a mecca for Mountain Bike riders and the new Willowie Forest network right next door offers an awesome mix of beginner and intermediate trails.

The Wilmington to Melrose Rail Trail, is at your doorstep. This offers a very pleasant 10 km ride into Melrose or into Wilmington, along the scenic track. The Rail Trail is now extended from Melrose to Booleroo and Wirabarra.

There is the option of mountain bike hire, including e-bike hire in Melrose at ‘Over the Edge Sports’ if you’re unable to bring your own bikes.

“The Retreat is a very peaceful one. If you want to be at the heart of nature with bird song and frog call, this is the place to be.”
(Tripadvisor Review)

Our Retreat is a bird watchers and nature lovers paradise, with opportunities for artists and photographers to immerse themselves in the natural world. The bird life is extraordinary! We have a bird list of 83 different species put together by a local Ornithologist.

“The wildlife and birds play around you. A magical place! Definitely good for the soul.”
(Airbnb Review)

Kookaburra Creek is a member of the Wildlife Land Trust. Being part of this organisation means we are trying to conserve our bush property and by doing so, creating a safe habitat for the wildlife. We have an abundance of wildlife. Kangaroos and Euros will greet you as you enter the property. Some may have sweet little joeys in their pouches. Be sure to slow down and admire them. They frequently visit and graze around the accommodation.

In the Spring to Summer months you may see a Lace Monitor or 2. These huge reptiles can grow up to 1.5m long! It’s very entertaining to observe them as they inquisitively wander. Kookaburra Creek will offer you a farm stay experience out in the bush. Send the kids to collect the chooks eggs, and offer the chooks your food scraps in return. If you come at the right season, there may be fresh vegetables or fruit produce in the accommodation garden to enjoy!

We totally rely on our own water catchment. It all comes from the sky! All indoor taps and showers are on rainwater. This is our only water supply other than dam water, which is used for the garden. The Retreat is accessible to all types of vehicles with care, including caravans with a decent clearance. The road is a little stony in places.

Please drive at 15kms or less along the road, as there is plenty of wildlife along the way.

To be able to enjoy and protect the wildlife, please no pets!

We are both keen hikers, and love exploring this gorgeous country, and also enjoy a little mountain biking. We live on the property and we’re happily available to talk to for advise and tips for some great experiences in our local area while you visit.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY…

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land we live. We pay our respect to the Nukunu people, past, present and emerging, and by doing so, we gain a deep respect and understanding of the land. Caring and maintaining our property in the most sustainable way ensures that it will stay protected and thrive for generations to come.

We ask that all our visitors also respect our property and observe the guidelines for their stay. We have learnt from indigenous people, with their knowledge, that when the land doesn’t know you, it’s important to speak to it, to introduce yourself, to say who you are, where you’re from, and that you come with a kind spirit and a good intent, and that you care for the place.

SOME INTERESTING HISTORY…

Our bush property was purchased by Jo’s parents, Bruce and Veronica Shanks in 1977. On their first evening camping on the property, they were listening to the sound of the Kookaburras. “What shall we call our new home?” Bruce asked. “How about Kookaburra Creek” Veronica said. “Well, until we think of another name.”
And to this day the name has stayed!

The dwellings were built with the loving help and skills of many close friends in the 80’s before it became an Accommodation Retreat years down the track.

Kookaburra Creek slowly grew to accommodate Jo’s family, sourcing and utilising recycled building materials from the demolished Wirabarra Train Station and the old Wilmington School. From there, a beautiful and creative space began…

The property started it’s journey as a an Accommodation Retreat 20 years later, in 1997. The year after we were married and celebrated our wedding here.

My parents David and Marilyn Rosenzweig purchased the property.
More infrastructure was added to accommodate groups and better water catchment added for it to become more self-sufficient for a family running the Retreat from the Barossa Valley, in conjunction with the North Star Hotel.

“Each stone and piece of woodwork has a story from the family and their fascinating history. We loved our accommodation, the beautiful bush and walking trails. Our kids loved the creek and the wildlife. We loved that there was an ecological and sustainable living tone to the entire property.”
(Facebook Review)

In 2010 Jo and myself, Melita, purchased Kookaburra Creek for our own little growing family as we could see a great opportunity. Here our own journey began….

Our accommodation business is family run, together with our 4 children and with the help of extended family. We all chip in and help out in many ways to keep the property maintained. It’s an amazing lifestyle and an enjoyable opportunity for us all, also being very educational for our
children.

We welcome you to Kookaburra Creek. Our bush property is a gift we share with you, for you and your family to enjoy and to take in the beauty of nature itself.

Whether you’re visiting for an adventurous hiking trip, mountain biking, or to just simply unwind and relax, we offer a down to earth holiday, away from the rest!

It will be a truly enjoyable and unforgettable stay. A secret hideaway waiting to be discovered…

Kookaburra Creek is a truly unique and special place.
Located on Nukunu land, our privately owned bush property of 80acres is situated at the base of the beautiful Mount Remarkable with National Park on three sides.                                                                                      Our little sanctuary has remained in our family for over 45 years, which is pretty special in itself. Over those years Kookaburra Creek has hosted many gatherings and events, from weddings to Vietnam Veteran retreats, Art and Craft Workshops and Spiritual Gatherings, shared with friends and families, creating treasured life long memories.
We wish for our guests to take time out for themselves, to experience the tranquillity and peace of the natural bushland. This is an opportunity for some quality time in a natural and relaxed atmosphere.

Our Retreat is 10 kms north of Melrose situated at the base of the beautiful Mt Remarkable, in the Southern Flinders Ranges.                                                                                                                                            Kookaburra Creek is centrally located in South Australia, 274 kms or 3 hrs easy drive from Adelaide.                                                                                                                                                                                                          We offer a range of unique, self-contained dwellings to suit individuals, couples, families or groups, with plenty of room to explore the outdoor wonders of nature.                                                                                          We can accommodate up to 18 people comfortably or 14 single people.
An ideal space for 3-4 families.

Larger groups can be accommodated if you bring caravans or tents.
Bush camping is offered during our Non-Fire Ban Season only.
The Retreat is well-equipped with everything you need for self-catering, making it a fantastic set-up for groups.

“A place to get away from it all with all the facilities you need. Comfortable beds with bunks for the kids if needed, but the real highlight is the outdoor facilities such as BBQ’s fire pit and various areas to relax and chat.”
(Tripadvisor Review)

There is so much natural beauty to be explored and discovered, from creeks and gorges and mountains to climb. We have easy walking trails on the property and into the National Park next door. Enjoy a relaxing bush walk, which will be sure to awaken your senses. Springtime brings out a magical array of colourful wild flowers.

From July to October, observe carefully and you will discover many different varieties of orchids. We have discovered up to 12 different varieties here on our property.

There are seasonal creeks on the property and in the National Park. Through Winter and Spring we enjoy the trickling water making it’s way down through the property. There are numerous hiking trails including The Heysen Trail nearby for the enthusiastic. Only 20 mins drive from the Retreat you’ll find the spectacular Alligator Gorge.

Just 40 mins drive away you’ll find Devil’s Peak, Mt Brown and Dutchman’s Stern. These locations offer some of the most incredible hikes in the Southern Flinders.

“You feel like you’re miles away from the rest of the world yet Melrose is just a 10km drive if you want a proper coffee or a pub meal. You can do as much or as little as you want.”
(Tripadvisor Review)

The local area is a mecca for Mountain Bike riders and the new Willowie Forest network right next door offers an awesome mix of beginner and intermediate trails.

The Wilmington to Melrose Rail Trail, is at your doorstep. This offers a very pleasant 10 km ride into Melrose or into Wilmington, along the scenic track. The Rail Trail is now extended from Melrose to Booleroo and Wirabarra.

There is the option of mountain bike hire, including e-bike hire in Melrose at ‘Over the Edge Sports’ if you’re unable to bring your own bikes.

“The Retreat is a very peaceful one. If you want to be at the heart of nature with bird song and frog call, this is the place to be.”
(Tripadvisor Review)

Our Retreat is a bird watchers and nature lovers paradise, with opportunities for artists and photographers to immerse themselves in the natural world. The bird life is extraordinary! We have a bird list of 83 different species put together by a local Ornithologist.

“The wildlife and birds play around you. A magical place! Definitely good for the soul.”
(Airbnb Review)

Kookaburra Creek is a member of the Wildlife Land Trust. Being part of this organisation means we are trying to conserve our bush property and by doing so, creating a safe habitat for the wildlife. We have an abundance of wildlife. Kangaroos and Euros will greet you as you enter the property. Some may have sweet little joeys in their pouches. Be sure to slow down and admire them. They frequently visit and graze around the accommodation.

In the Spring to Summer months you may see a Lace Monitor or 2. These huge reptiles can grow up to 1.5m long! It’s very entertaining to observe them as they inquisitively wander. Kookaburra Creek will offer you a farm stay experience out in the bush. Send the kids to collect the chooks eggs, and offer the chooks your food scraps in return. If you come at the right season, there may be fresh vegetables or fruit produce in the accommodation garden to enjoy!

We totally rely on our own water catchment. It all comes from the sky! All indoor taps and showers are on rainwater. This is our only water supply other than dam water, which is used for the garden. The Retreat is accessible to all types of vehicles with care, including caravans with a decent clearance. The road is a little stony in places.

Please drive at 15kms or less along the road, as there is plenty of wildlife along the way.

To be able to enjoy and protect the wildlife, please no pets!

We are both keen hikers, and love exploring this gorgeous country, and also enjoy a little mountain biking. We live on the property and we’re happily available to talk to for advise and tips for some great experiences in our local area while you visit.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY…

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land we live. We pay our respect to the Nukunu people, past, present and emerging, and by doing so, we gain a deep respect and understanding of the land. Caring and maintaining our property in the most sustainable way ensures that it will stay protected and thrive for generations to come.

We ask that all our visitors also respect our property and observe the guidelines for their stay. We have learnt from indigenous people, with their knowledge, that when the land doesn’t know you, it’s important to speak to it, to introduce yourself, to say who you are, where you’re from, and that you come with a kind spirit and a good intent, and that you care for the place.

SOME INTERESTING HISTORY…

Our bush property was purchased by Jo’s parents, Bruce and Veronica Shanks in 1977. On their first evening camping on the property, they were listening to the sound of the Kookaburras. “What shall we call our new home?” Bruce asked. “How about Kookaburra Creek” Veronica said. “Well, until we think of another name.”
And to this day the name has stayed!

The dwellings were built with the loving help and skills of many close friends in the 80’s before it became an Accommodation Retreat years down the track.

Kookaburra Creek slowly grew to accommodate Jo’s family, sourcing and utilising recycled building materials from the demolished Wirabarra Train Station and the old Wilmington School. From there, a beautiful and creative space began…

The property started it’s journey as a an Accommodation Retreat 20 years later, in 1997. The year after we were married and celebrated our wedding here.

My parents David and Marilyn Rosenzweig purchased the property.
More infrastructure was added to accommodate groups and better water catchment added for it to become more self-sufficient for a family running the Retreat from the Barossa Valley, in conjunction with the North Star Hotel.

“Each stone and piece of woodwork has a story from the family and their fascinating history. We loved our accommodation, the beautiful bush and walking trails. Our kids loved the creek and the wildlife. We loved that there was an ecological and sustainable living tone to the entire property.”
(Facebook Review)

In 2010 Jo and myself, Melita, purchased Kookaburra Creek for our own little growing family as we could see a great opportunity. Here our own journey began….

Our accommodation business is family run, together with our 4 children and with the help of extended family. We all chip in and help out in many ways to keep the property maintained. It’s an amazing lifestyle and an enjoyable opportunity for us all, also being very educational for our
children.

We welcome you to Kookaburra Creek. Our bush property is a gift we share with you, for you and your family to enjoy and to take in the beauty of nature itself.

Whether you’re visiting for an adventurous hiking trip, mountain biking, or to just simply unwind and relax, we offer a down to earth holiday, away from the rest!

It will be a truly enjoyable and unforgettable stay. A secret hideaway waiting to be discovered…