Most of the on-site cabins at the park were destroyed during the 2022 Victorian floods, while caravan sites and communal spaces also suffered damage.
Residents were moved to alternative accommodation when the park closed, with support from Emergency Recovery Victoria’s temporary accommodation program.
Aspen Lodge provides accommodation for long-term residents and vulnerable community members.
The caravan park provides housing security and a safe environment for retirees, seasonal workers and people who may need an extra supportive environment.
The Shepparton/Mooroopna Housing Taskforce, established in response to the floods, awarded an $800,000 grant to the re-establishment of accommodation at the caravan park after identifying it as a community priority.
Emergency Recovery Victoria’s clean-up program conducted all-hazard structural assessments at the site, followed by works, demolition and waste removal.
“ERV still has a presence in communities affected by the October 2022 floods and we will continue to provide support to these communities throughout their recovery journey,” Emergency Recovery Victoria chief executive Mariela Diaz said.
The park owners also received personalised recovery and business support through the Flood Recovery Support Program.
A new park plan was developed to mitigate flood and fire, some cabins refurbished and new cabins installed. This has improved amenity and safety elements of the park.
While minor works continue, 78 residents have moved into Aspen Lodge across 42 cabins and seven powered caravan sites, including returning residents – some who have lived at the lodge for more than 35 years.
“It’s so important to the recovery process to be in the community — I’m thrilled that Aspen Lodge is once again a safe place to call home for people,” Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes said.
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