ALGAL BLOOM SUMMER PLAN: Dining Cashback program sparks business
Hindmarsh Island’s Coorong Cafe has welcomed a return of customers thanks to the Federal and State Governments’ Summer Plan Dining Cashback program, designed to support coastal hospitality businesses and seafood retailers impacted by the algal bloom this summer.
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Hindmarsh Island’s Coorong Cafe has welcomed a return of customers thanks to the Federal and State Governments’ Summer Plan Dining Cashback program, designed to support coastal hospitality businesses and seafood retailers impacted by the algal bloom this summer.
The initiative gives lucky winners 50 per cent cashback – up to the value of $50 – when they dine at participating venues or purchase local seafood retailers.
South Australians aged 18 and over can enter the ballot for a chance to win a Dining Cashback this summer, with the next draw to be held on January 2, 2026.
Winners must redeem their Dining Cashback within allocated periods, and Coorong Cafe owner, Peter Oliver, is urging people to not let the opportunity pass.
“(The program) has been really good to be part of… we’re certainly seeing the benefit of it and I know that flows on,” he said.
Mr Oliver said one of the greatest advantages has been the ripple effect – customers using their cashbacks are referring friends, and visitors using the Coast is Calling Travel Vouchers, such as for Canoe the Coorong or Spirit of the Coorong, are being referred to the food truck for fresh seafood to complete their South Coast visit.
The program is helping his business bounce back after what’s been their toughest trading year in a decade, including COVID, the floods and cost of living crisis.
“We have been hugely affected – the impact has been huge, and it was unexpected,” Mr Oliver said.
“What’s affected us is the change of perception. People haven’t come down to the South Coast because they don’t think the beaches are safe to swim in.
“For the first time ever in 10 years, people come and ask if it’s toxic. Is it safe to eat?”
All commercially-available seafood from South Australia remains safe to eat.
Mr Oliver believes Coorong Cafe’s competitive advantage is sourcing fresh, local Coorong mullet and mulloway, so popular that customers line up for it.
But barramundi sourced interstate has also been added to the menu as an alternative.
Mr Oliver is also noticing the State Government’s education campaign is reassuring customers.
Looking ahead, Mr Oliver is “very optimistic” about the future and the business bouncing back.
“This was unexpected and could have long term ramifications, but the businesses here are very resilient and we thank everyone for their support,” he said.
“We’ve had great local support and that’s underpinning everything.
“Our beaches, and the Coorong, haven’t been as affected as other places… the sanctuary of the Coorong has been maintained. We’re really blessed.”
To enter the ballot for a chance to win a Dining Cashback, go to southaustralia.com/diningcashback
Summer Plan Dining Cashback program
Promoted by the South Australian Tourism Commission, Level 9, 250 Victoria Sq, Adelaide SA 5000: Licence Nos. T25/2028. T25/2027 & T25/2026. 50% cash back offer, up to $50. To enter and for full T&Cs, visit southaustralia.com/voucher *Limitations apply
Coast is Calling Travel Vouchers
Promoted by the South Australian Tourism Commission, Level 9, 250 Victoria Sq, Adelaide SA 5000: Licence No. SA T25/1889. For full T&Cs, visit southaustralia.com/voucher
Vouchers are $100, $200, $500 (accomodation) and $100 (experience).
