Rustic traditions at Chowilla

People have been staying at Chowilla Station's old shearer's quarters on the River Murray for decades.

But it has only been the past 20 years or so that it has been a more formal enterprise, when Jock and Lis Robertson further developed the tourism operation, primarily to fund the maintenance of the historic building.

Following family succession in 2012, James and Kerrie Robertson have continued to operate the tourism business and improve the facility and the experience offered to guests.

The shearers' quarters offer rustic-style accommodation for up to 28 guests on the banks of the River Murray.

This consists of 11 bedrooms, a large dining area and kitchen, and a new riverfront outdoor dining area.

The facility is very popular with families: fishing, skiing, church and school groups.

"Our guests basically have their own private stretch of river which is great for those who are keen on water sports or angling," Kerrie said.

"And there's the added bonus of comfortable beds, hot showers, and flushing toilets which are usually few and far between when you're camping."

For many, it is a step back to the good old days. Water is heated by a woodchip 'donkey' and pumped direct from the river, the kitchen features a wood-fired Metters oven (and a couple of gas ovens), and the refrigerators are gas-fuelled.

But in the past 12 months, there have been a few more modern additions.

The old diesel engine-powered 32-volt lighting plant has been replaced by a solar panel and battery set-up and a limited amount of 240-volt electricity is available (also solar-powered).

* Full report in Stock Journal, August 28, 2014 issue.