Solar Energy & Water Guide for Caravans
Welcome to Berry Springs Farmstay!
Our property operates entirely on solar power and bore water, so mindful use of energy and water is essential for everyone staying on-site — especially for caravan and van users. Preference is given to self sufficient applicants.
Self-Sustainable Living & Power Use
Berry Springs Farmstay is an off-grid rural property. Applicants must live energy-efficiently, water-wise, and minimise waste.
Preference is given to applicants who are self-sufficient in their own caravan, ideally using their own solar power. Any use of property power requires prior written owner approval.
If approved, weekly power contributions apply (per caravan or per room):
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$50/week – basic daytime power use
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$100/week – higher power use (e.g. overnight air-conditioning) or room/studio/demountable accommodation
Power must be paid upfront on arrival and weekly each Monday. Power access may be restricted or disconnected if unpaid.
⚠️ Electrical Safety & Compliance
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Weatherproof power-cord joint protectors may be used only temporarily (a few hours maximum) and only if no safer option is available. They are not permitted as a permanent solution.
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Certified Australian-standard (AS/NZS) leads and connectors only — no DIY, modified, or low-quality products.
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Unsafe or non-compliant electrical setups are prohibited and may result in immediate disconnection.
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Permanent or long-term power connections must be installed by a licensed electrician.
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Improper electrical use may void insurance coverage; users are fully responsible for any resulting damage.
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For safety and insurance compliance, temporary electrical fixes must remain temporary.
⚠️ Cables & Approval
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No power cables may be visible, loose, or on the ground at any time.
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All electrical setups must be approved in writing by the owner.
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Temporary connections must be removed immediately after use.
☀️ Solar Energy Use – House or Demountable
Our solar system provides reliable daytime power, but energy storage is limited overnight.
If approved, weekly power contributions apply (per caravan or per room):
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$50/week – basic daytime power use
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$100/week – higher power use (e.g. overnight air-conditioning)
To help keep the system stable for all residents:
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Use appliances, air conditioning, and chargers during sunny hours (roughly 8 AM – 5 PM).
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Unplug and switch off all devices before sunset.
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Avoid running air conditioning, kettles, washing machines, or microwaves overnight — these can quickly drain the batteries.
There is no generator backup, so once the solar batteries are low, power cannot be restored until sunlight returns.
Water comes from our electric bore pump, and it must be managed carefully:
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Fill your caravan tanks each morning after the sun rises, and check levels again in the afternoon.
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Before evening or any storm, make sure tanks are completely full. You’ll know they’re full when they slightly overflow — this is normal.
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Unplug and switch off the bore pump every night and before any storm, to prevent damage from lightning strikes.
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Always switch off taps and hoses after use and report leaks immediately.
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During cloudy days or after storms, please limit water use until the system stabilizes.
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Lightning strikes are common in this region and can damage bore pumps, solar systems, caravans, and electrical devices.
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Always unplug your caravan and all electrical devices during storms.
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We are not responsible for ANY damage, loss of life, or injury.
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You must have your own insurance covering storm, lightning, electrical damage, injury, and personal belongings.
Weather Awareness
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Check the weather radar daily and act early.
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Before storms arrive:
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Unplug all power
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Fill water tanks if required
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Secure loose items around your caravan
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Failure to take reasonable precautions is entirely at your own risk.
Everyone on the property contributes to maintaining safe and sustainable living conditions. By following these simple guidelines, you help protect our solar and water systems — ensuring everyone can enjoy a comfortable, eco-friendly stay at Berry Springs Farmstay.