Hatching of Bukirk
The Story Behind Bukirk and the ‘Chook’ Nickname
Owned and operated by myself, Alison Meaney, Bukirk takes its name from my nickname ‘Chook’, and my love of all things feathered. The name Bukirk comes about from the sound a chicken makes (Buk, Buk Bukirk!!!)
Transforming a Vineyard: From Vines to Vision
In 2015, I bought a property with a run-down vineyard. After consulting with local vineyard experts and receiving mainly discouraging advice, I decided to clear the vines and reimagine the land. So I invested in a backhoe, having never driven one before I asked my brother to train me how to drive it. On my R&R from fly in fly out (FIFO) job, I would spend most of my days digging and removing over 20,000 vines, 5,400 7ft creosote posts, 7,000 steel droppers and thousands of metres of wire and dripper tube.
Given my experience in hotel stays from my previous career in mining which took me to the Northern Territory, Western Australia and Canada. Coupled with my love of the outdoors and adventures travelling the world, I was inspired to design a unique form of accommodation.
I spent considerable time researching what was available in regional South Australia and Australia, and importantly, the local Clare Valley area. I discovered a significant gap in the market and determined that something distinctive and a little out of the ordinary would help bring more people to our beautiful region.
Building Bukirk: The Early Stages
In June 2017 works began on the project, first was to get water to the site as mains water is not available on my property. I installed three rainwater tanks to capture water off my large shed which is located 150 metres from the accommodation site. Next was digging many trenches for power, septic and water to each proposed glamping site. The concrete pad was prepared and poured for the outdoor entertaining area aka “Glamp Kitchen”. Then began the building of the decks and ensuites for the first two ‘glamping’ tents.
The Grand Opening of Bukirk Glamping
The idea was finally ‘Hatched’ in 2018 with the first two tents and an outdoor communal area open for the first stay on 3 March 2018! I was pleasantly surprised with the demand at such an early stage of opening, I therefore decided to invest in a further two tents that opened those in July 2018, with the fifth and final Tent in August 2019.
Expanding with Luxury Cabins: The Fancy Coops
Since then, I’ve expanded our accommodations to include two self-contained, luxury cabins called “Fancy Coops.” Designed as a boutique alternative to glamping, these cabins offer kitchenettes, ensuites, and climate control, all while maintaining Bukirk’s signature charm.
Accessible Glamping: Introducing Cluckingham Palace
By December 2021, I had expanded even further, adding an in-ground pool with an entertaining area, our “Henquarters” Welcome Center for Guests to purchase merchandise and local products, and a manager’s residence. In 2023, we introduced an accessible “Fancy Coop” called “Cluckingham Palace,” thoughtfully designed for guests with disabilities and mobility challenges.
Today’s Bukirk Glamping Experience
Today, Bukirk Glamping offers a luxurious, unique stay in the Clare Valley, blending rustic charm with modern amenities, all inspired by my love of adventure and the outdoors.
