The land was purchased in 2001 by the Kelman family. For some time it had been operated as a buffalo and cattle station, however the potential as a tourism destination for hunting and photographic safaris was a main interest for them.
A lot of time and dollars were spent in setting the reserve up to cater for hunters and tourists. Originally the plan was to operate Carmor Plains as a part tourism and cattle venture, however in more recent years the increased interest for international safari hunting has seen a focus in this direction.
Today, Carmor Plains Wildlife Reserve operates for 12 months of the year catering to hunters and photographic tourists from Denmark, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Spain, USA and other countries, in search of Water Buffalo, Wild Boar and Crocodiles or maybe just a fantastic photograph of a sunset!
Matt Kelman is a part owner and the manager of Carmor Plains and takes part in all aspects of running the reserve. With a lifetime of hunting experience and professionally guiding safaris since 1992, his main work is as a safari guide for the guests. Out in the bush tracking water buffalo and wild boar or catching crocodiles in the swamps... this is what he lives for.
John and Lyn Kelman are the other owners of Carmor Plains and whilst they do not live full time on the Wildlife Reserve, they do play a large part in the management of the property. John is a keen pilot and flies his own light aircraft (a Mooney) from Bauple in southern Queensland up to Carmor Plains, 3 or 4 times a year to help out... 3000 km away! In his spare time he manages their other cattle property, Rossendale where he and Lyn reside.
Lyn is a very active person involved with many volunteer and advisory committees which keeps her extremely busy! Due to her hard work and efforts, in 2008 she was also appointed a Member of the Order of Australia.
Paul Moritz is the full time chef at Carmor Plains. He has been involved in the food preparation industry since the 1980's and has been impressing the guests here at the reserve since 2006. His trade speciality in seafood, game meat and patisserie (desserts) has been a huge success in the dining room!
So whether it be a hunting safari, an airboat
tour or maybe sampling a good Australian wine out on the gazebo deck and watching the sun set, the team at Carmor Plains will give you 100 percent to ensure your safari is a success.
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