Tara business owners retire after shock diagnosis

After running the Tara Caravan Park on the Western Downs for more than three decades, a husband and wife are closing their doors to focus on the important things.

CLOSED: It's the end of an era for the Tara Caravan Park as Margie and Ray Read close their doors after 31-years of management. Pic: Peta McEachern

With 31-years of blood, sweat and tears under their belt, husband-and-wife team Margaret and Ray Read made the tough decision to close the doors of the Tara Caravan Park.

CLOSED: It's the end of an era for the Tara Caravan Park as Margie and Ray Read close their doors after 31-years of management. Pic: Peta McEachern

Mr Read, 69, said his shock cancer diagnosis in February led him and his wife to put his health first and plan for retirement.

The decision rocked the small caravan community, as the eight tenants and their families were left scrambling to find an alternative place to call home.

The Western Downs Regional Council, trustee of the caravan park, put plans in place to ensure residents were supported during the transition.

END OF AN ERA: Tara Caravan Park managers Margie and Ray Read had run the park for as long as they’d been married – 31-years. Pic: Peta McEachern

A council spokeswoman said they understood the impact the decision had on the park residents and the council would work closely with the Reads to support everyone affected.

“Council has also arranged for Centrelink and housing services through the Department of Communities to attend the caravan park and meet with residents to assist with their transition at this difficult time,” she said.

SHOCKED: Residents at the caravan park in Tara were socked on Monday, May 17, when they realised that they’d have to find another place to call home – and fast. Peta McEachern

The spokeswoman said the current managers and residents had until July 19 to move.

“The managers have cited several reasons behind their decision, including ill health and their desire to retire,” she said.

“The (26) vans are owned by the managers and will be removed as part of the management agreement.”

CLOSED: It's the end of an era for the Tara Caravan Park as Margie and Ray Read close their doors due to serious illness. Pic: Peta McEachern

The council said it was made aware after the fact that tenants were issued with a notice to leave on Monday, May 17.

Located on the corner of Day Street and Baddleys Road, the land is owned by the State Government for the purpose of a caravan park.