Renmark Paringa Council is stepping up its commitment to creating greener, cooler public spaces, planting 42 new trees along a key stretch of the Renmark riverfront this week.

Council is planting 42 trees on the Renmark riverfront between the Renmark Club and Visitor Information Centre to help create a more inviting and accessible location for locals and visitors all year round.

The initiative, which has been strongly backed by council’s elected members, is a key component of Renmark Paringa Council’s long-term aspirations outlined in its 2024-2034 Community Plan.

Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter said the project is a meaningful step in delivering on both the Greening Renmark Paringa Plan and the Council’s long-term community aspirations.

“Planting more trees not only improves the beauty and amenity of our public spaces but also helps reduce heat, create habitat for native species, and improve the overall wellbeing of our community,” he said.

“This initiative directly supports our Greening Renmark Paringa Plan by increasing canopy cover and enhancing biodiversity in key urban areas. It also reflects the values outlined in our Community Plan, where we prioritise sustainability, livability, and the health of our natural environment.”

In addition to the riverfront improvements, the Greening Renmark Paringa Plan – which is currently in draft format after a period of public consultation – also outlines Council’s commitment to increasing street tree plantings across residential areas.

This broader initiative aims to create cooler, greener neighbourhoods, reduce urban heat, and improve walkability and visual appeal in everyday settings.

Renmark Paringa Council’s Open Space team will be planting a mix of tree varieties that are already familiar to the local landscape:

• 21 Gleditsia Tricanthos (Honey Locust) – already a standout along the Taylor Riverfront Precinct.
• 12 Acacia Melanoxylon (Blackwood) – commonly seen in the triangle nature strip near Bank SA and Westpac.
• 10 Lagerstroemia Indica (White Crepe Myrtle) – similar to those near the new wombat crossing.

To ensure safety during the planting, sections of the worksite will be flagged off from public access. However, pedestrian access will be maintained, with minimal disruption expected.

In addition to environmental benefits, Mayor Hunter emphasised the economic and tourism value of greening high-traffic areas such as the riverfront.

“By creating more shaded, inviting spaces, we’re encouraging people to spend more time in the heart of Renmark, even during hotter months,” he said.

“This supports local businesses, enhances the visitor experience, and strengthens Renmark’s reputation as a welcoming, attractive river town. It’s a win for both our community and our economy.

“Our riverfront is a key asset, and we’re committed to making it greener, cooler, and more welcoming for everyone.

“We have also taken careful consideration regarding the location of trees to ensure flexibility when it comes to planning and attracting events to the riverfront area.”

The introduced trees are also part of replacing a number of small cocos palms removed during the Renmark Riverfront Wharf upgrade.

The new trees will not only replace but vastly increase the number of trees and provide varieties that will result in significantly increased shade in the future.

The Greening Renmark Paringa Plan will be presented to elected members for endorsement after considering community feedback in the coming months.