What is the Riverland in South Australia?
The Riverland is an irrigated farming region along the Murray River in South Australia, known for citrus, grapes, almonds and stone fruit. Main towns include Renmark, Berri and Loxton.
Irrigation began in 1887 when Canadian brothers George and William Chaffey set up an irrigation settlement at Renmark. Water pumped from the river turned dry mallee country into productive orchards and vineyards.
The region produces a large share of Australia's wine grapes, especially for everyday wines. Citrus, especially oranges, has long been a key crop.
River life
The Murray's cliffs, lagoons and red gums make the Riverland popular for houseboat holidays, canoeing and fishing. Banrock Station has wetland walks.
The Riverland suffered in the Millennium Drought and in major floods in 2022-23.
Towns along the river include Waikerie, Barmera and Renmark.
The Riverland is about two and a half to three hours' drive northeast of Adelaide along the Sturt Highway. Its sunny, dry climate and long growing season suit fruit and grapes, and roadside stalls sell fresh produce and dried fruit. The Riverland Biosphere Reserve protects mallee and wetland habitat near the river.
Did You Know?
Renmark is often described as Australia's first irrigation settlement.