Racist acts cause concern for Riverland backpackers `

Reports of racist outbursts are increasing amid the coronavirus pandemic, and the latest incidents have disturbed Riverland backpackers.

German backpackers Milan Scheunemann and Kristina Welters, front, with others at the Loxton hostel. Picture: Tait Schmaal

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Riverland backpackers are horrified that messages to “go home” have been left at a Loxton hostel.

With fear over coronavirus leading to a lift in racism reports across Australia, the Harvest Trail Lodge backpackers has had rocks thrown at it and racist messages posted outside the building.

It is German backpacker Milan Scheunemann’s first trip to Australia and he has been working in the Riverland since November. He said it was a shame to have these incidents occur when most of the community welcomed backpackers.

“We had stones thrown up on the balcony (at the hostel) but by the time we looked over, whoever had thrown them had already gone,” he said.

Backpackers in Loxton have been getting a hard time, with bins at the local hostel graffitied and rocks thrown at their balcony.

McLaren Vale Backpackers manager Johanne Ruddock said it was a tough time for backpackers in the region, with limited work in the area coupled with no government support. Social distancing means the McLaren Vale Backpackers can only house 40 people at the moment, compared to the normal 120, meaning some backpackers had to be turned away.

“I’ve had people ring up, asking to come in and I can’t help them, which is just heartbreaking,” she said.

Citrus Australia chief executive Nathan Hancock said Australians should welcome working holiday-makers “with open arms” as they play a key role in the industry.

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“Across Australia, people want to eat Australian produce and we need people who are able to pick the fruit and get it to the supply chain,” he said.

Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said racial vilification or abuse towards backpackers, or anyone else, was completely unacceptable.

“Our backpackers are an important part of the local economy,” he said.