By Natasha Fujimoto
IN a world where challenges often lead to retreat, Russell and Yvonne Prince’s remarkable commitment to Aspen Lodge Caravan Park is a tale of not only personal courage but of enduring community spirit.
Nestled at the end of a quiet cul de sac in Mooroopna not far from the river’s edge, this humble but peaceful park has become more than just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary for a diverse group of people who, in addition to convenient tranquility, seek affordable accommodation. Aspen Lodge is not just a caravan park, it’s a refuge where people find hope, connection, and the support they need to move forward in their lives.
Purchasing the park just before the onset of COVID in 2019, Russell and Yvonne’s journey has been full of challenges. From the financial strain of the pandemic to the devastating floods of 2022, which destroyed much of the park’s infrastructure, the couple has faced set back after setback. Despite these hardships, they have worked tirelessly to rebuild the business, reopening after a year-long closure to welcome back both short and long-term tenants.
Facing the aftermath of the devastating floodwater that destroyed most of their 70 cabins, Russell and Yvonne briefly considered throwing in the towel but soon chose to courageously rebuild from scratch. Despite the immense challenge of cleaning up, dealing with financial struggles, and navigating red tape, they remained determined. With support from local builders, contractors and the Council, they set out to create something better than before.
Their goal was to exceed new regulations and build a sustainable, energy-efficient park with 50 fully self-contained, affordable cabins. The cabins feature double-glazed windows, heat pumps and decking, with many restored cabins receiving upgrades such as new floors and utilities. New transportable cabins were also added, and all cabins are now equipped with energy-efficient air conditioning.
Looking forward, Aspen Lodge plans to add dongers and on-site caravans next year, and a new outdoor kitchen has been built to enhance the guest experience. Despite the challenges they faced, Russell and Yvonne have successfully created a sustainable and comfortable environment for their visitors. Driven by a deep sense of duty to the community, the couple are only too aware of the role their business plays in providing crucial support for so many individuals in need of budget accommodation, humbly going over and above in their role as proprietors to foster a sense of place and security for their tenants.
Firing-up the smoker every now and then, but especially during winter and at Christmas to provide a communal meal, Russell and Yvonne said, “A lot of people here are here on their own… so we put on a Christmas lunch because, well…that’s just us. We do it because it gives us joy. Our park is a business but it’s about more than just the profits, it’s about people. We always try to help who we can, and you can’t help everyone, but you help who you can.”
