As we move beyond the halfway mark of the 2024/25 financial year, Renmark Paringa Council is pleased to provide an update on several key projects that are shaping the future of our community. From major infrastructure improvements to essential public amenities, these projects demonstrate our commitment to accessibility, resilience, and community enhancement.

Twentyfirst Street Bridge Replacement

The replacement of the Twentyfirst Street Bridge remains on track for completion in mid-2025. This project aims to improve connectivity and road safety while ensuring flood resilience.

Recent progress includes:

• Demolition of the previous bridge, clearing the way for modern infrastructure.
• Earthworks and concrete preparation for new bridge abutments to support a stronger structure.
• Installation of five bridge girders using a 500-tonne crane, a critical step in forming the bridge’s framework.
• Commencement of wingwalls and culvert works, essential for stabilizing the structure and managing water flow.
• Road formation and construction underway, with layers being built up to improve durability and elevation.

The new bridge and roadway alignment supports better flood resilience and improved water flow under Bookmark Creek. With over 70% of the contractors being local, the project is not only enhancing infrastructure but also supporting the local economy.

Local contractors involved in the project include:

• Stoney Pinch Earthmoving
• Santos
• Brett Hammerstein Concrete
• Altitude Earthworks
• JMA Engineering

These businesses have played a critical role in ensuring the success of this project, and their involvement highlights the strong commitment to utilising local expertise wherever possible.

Council is pleased to have reliable and professional local businesses to be able to partner with for the many important projects happening in our community.

The bridge replacement is a major project for BMD Constructions, with their crew on the ground taking huge amounts of pride in creating this as a showpiece not only for them, but also they understand the importance of the project to the local community.

For more information about the project visit here: https://engagement.renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au/twenty...

Renmark Riverfront Wharf Upgrade

The Renmark Riverfront Wharf Upgrade, the largest project in Renmark Paringa Council’s history, reached completion in November 2024. This transformative project enhances accessibility for pedestrians, emergency service vehicles, and river vessels while ensuring resilience against future flood events.

Key features of the upgrade included:

• Wider and smoother pathways for pedestrians, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience along the riverfront.
• Enhanced accessibility features, including ramps and better connections for individuals with mobility challenges.
• Improved infrastructure for emergency services, ensuring swift response times during critical situations.
• Flood-resilient construction, incorporating durable materials and a reinforced design to withstand future flood events.

Thanks to significant external funding, including:

• Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program: $1 million
• South Australian Constraints Measures: $2.1 million
• Local Government Disaster Recovery Assistance Arrangements: $5.592 million
• Local Government Disaster Recovery Assistance Arrangements Betterment: $0.121 million
• Total External Funding: $8.813 million

These contributions have helped alleviate the financial impact on ratepayers while delivering a more functional and user-friendly wharf that will benefit the entire community for years to come.

An official opening in November was an exciting opportunity to showcase and share the new wharf with the community.

The 180 Murray Avenue Open Space Development project was also completed last year adding to the livability and attraction of the Renmark riverfront.

Renmark Wastewater Treatment Plant

Renmark Paringa Council is in the final stages of commissioning its upgraded Renmark Wastewater Treatment Plant, with practical completion expected within weeks.

Key final steps include:

• Staff training and operational readiness, ensuring the system is managed effectively.
• Final approvals from SA Health, a necessary step before full implementation.
• A four-week proving process, where the system will be tested for efficiency and compliance before becoming fully operational.

Once fully commissioned, the new plant will enhance wastewater treatment capabilities, support future population growth, and improve environmental sustainability by ensuring better water quality management.

For more information about the project visit here: https://engagement.renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au/renmark-wastewater-treatment-plant

Paringa Town Centre Toilets

The new Paringa Town Centre toilets are nearing completion, marking a significant enhancement for the community.

This upgrade, alongside improvements to nearby facilities, will improve accessibility with better paths, ramps, and signage. The project is being constructed by local builders Michael Kregar Building, further emphasising Council’s commitment to supporting local businesses.

Key features of the upgrade include:

• Modern and accessible facilities, designed for ease of use by all individuals, including those with disabilities.
• Enhanced lighting and security measures, ensuring a safe environment for residents and visitors.
• Aesthetic improvements, complementing the new nature playground and enhancing the overall appeal of the town centre.

Designed to complement the new nature playground, the project aims to make the town centre a welcoming and inclusive space for both residents and visitors.

Renmark Rowing Dock

The Renmark Rowing Dock is on the verge of practical completion, with major milestones, including gangway installations, recently achieved.

Final touches will include:

• Pathway integration and widening, ensuring smooth transitions between the existing footpaths and the dock.
• Final structural modifications, ensuring durability and stability for long-term use.
• Rock pitching and landscaping enhancements, improving aesthetics and usability of the surrounding area.

Completion is expected by early March.

Renmark Paringa Council has collaborated with the Renmark Rowing Club, and the Department of Environment to receive a fully-funded Constraints Measures Program grant.

Council has facilitated the procurement and construction management of the upgrade to result in a 70-metre long pontoon system.

The asset has been designed in conjunction with the Renmark Rowing Club to make sure it’s fit for purpose and support events like the Riverland Rowing Regatta and similar events into the future.

For the full details of the project visit here.

Road Reseals and Future River Projects

Last year, scheduled road re-seals were successfully completed, and resheeting of unsealed roads will commence shortly.

Upcoming river-related projects include:

• Applying for external funding to support the construction of the Bert Dix Park boat ramp, enhancing boating access for locals and visitors.
• Supporting the Department of Environment and Water with the Customs House boat ramp, another significant improvement for river users.

Renmark Paringa Council remains dedicated to improving local infrastructure and services, ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for our community. We thank residents for their ongoing support and look forward to delivering these essential projects in the coming months.