Renmark on the Murray: Ron does some exploring in the Riverland region of South AustraliaThe flood plains above Chowilla Station north of Renmark give some idea of what the pioneering Canadian irrigation specialists, the Chaffey Brothers, were up against when they arrived at what was then tough station country in the 1890s.
The town of Renmark today - with it's wide streets and elegant river frontage - is proof of the Chaffeys' vision and the hard work of those who followed them into this part of South Australia. Life's a bit more relaxed these days according to the manager of the town's River Bend Park, Klaus Wagnitz, who along with the hoardes of regular holidaymakers has fallen in love with this part of the river.
"The main attraction is the width of the river," said Klaus. "People are able to leave their boats in the water, they don't have to pull them out."
At the River Bend Park the pace of life is never hectic... in fact about as slow at the passing parade of houseboats that meander through the historic Paringa Bridge. Originally built as a railway bridge, when trains were hauling massive loads of wheat and barley across the river, it's now a road bridge and opens several times a day - just remember to book ahead!
It's also the turning point for one of the grand old ladies of the Murray, the PS Industry. From here, she'll head back to Renmark's main wharf.
Once a month the locals fire up the boiler on the Industry, which was commissioned in 1911 and worked until the late sixties as a maintenance boat on the locks and weirs for the old Engineering and Water Supply Department.
But if you have the need for speed then this stretch of the river won't disappoint with a number of water-skiing classes available. The River Bend Park can put you onto instructors who'll have you up on your skis within a day.
The main Murray Channel is a must and you can experience it along with a cuppa and scones on board Allan Carthew's River Rambler most days of the week.
But for that special experience of the Murray's many mysterious and hidden anabranches head off on one of Allan's backwater tours. It takes you into a maze of islands, creeks and lagoons - much of which is covered in a carpet of thick azolla weed. Allan knows these waters well which is a relief for us we work our way through Murray River tributaries with exotic names like, the Big Hunchee, the Bulyong and Dead Man's Creek.
It's hard to believe that this complex and intricate system of wetlands is just five kilometres from town as the pelican flies. Which makes it and the main river channel a mecca for those who stay right on the river's edge at Renmark's River Band Park.
Renmark is about two hundred and fifty kilometres North East of Adelaide - an easy two and a half-hour drive.
The Renmark Riverbend Caravan Park is on the Sturt Highway. A range of ensuite and standard cabins and camping sites are available. Contact Klaus on 8595 5131.
Allan Carthew's Renmark River Cruises has a range of cruises available from his Big River Ramble to a backwater dingy expedition. For bookings call 8595 1862.
The PS Industry is moored at the town wharf and is open daily. You can jump on board for a ninety-minute cruise on the first Sunday of the month. If you have any further questions please email info@postcards-sa.com.au
Renmark Riverbend Caravan Park
Sturt Highway
Renmark
250 kms northeast of AdelaideAllan Carthew's Renmark River Cruises
Run regularlyPS Industry
Moored at town wharf
Open Daily
Cruises on first Sunday of the monthPublished 11th March 2007
