Motorists travelling to this weekend’s AFL Gather Round in Adelaide are being urged to plan ahead and stop every two hours, including at the Coonalpyn rest stop.


The Coonalpyn stop involves collaboration between the South Australia Police Road Safety Section, Coorong Cats Football Club, SANFL and partners.


Set against the iconic Coonalpyn silo murals, the rest stop will operate over two days today from midday to 5pm, and Monday from 9am to 2pm.


Gather Round 2023 saw more than 25,000 visitors from Victoria, with even more expected to make the road trip to Adelaide this year.


Inspector Mick Turnbull said the rest stop aims to combat driver fatigue on South Australian roads during Gather Round.


“Driver fatigue is a major factor causing road crashes and is more likely to be an issue in rural areas due to the long distances and periods of continuous driving,” he said.


“Taking a 15-minute break at least every two hours where you get out of your car, get some fresh air and exercise can go a long way to ensuring you get to your destination safely.”


The Coorong Cats Football Club will run a barbecue for those who stop, while SANFL is offering activities for the whole family, including portable goal posts and handball targets.


“SANFL has been a committed road safety advocate for many years, strengthened by our longstanding partnership with Think! Road Safety,” SANFL chief executive Darren Chandler said.


“We are thrilled to be supporting the Coonalpyn Rest Stop initiative, with some fun footy activities, allowing families to break up the journey, stretch their legs and have a play.


“We really want to ensure the thousands of footy fans making the road trip to Gather Round arrive safely, while also helping to create awareness and drive home the vital message about road safety.”


Motorists road tripping during the school holidays are also reminded to avoid high-risk behaviours including the Fatal Five – drink/drug driving, dangerous driving, distraction, speeding and seatbelts.