Renmark Paringa Council has officially unveiled its new Renmark Riverfront Wharf, a project that enhances accessibility and provides vital infrastructure improvements for the community, visitors, and river users.

The major project, which began in February, has been the largest project in Renmark Paringa Council’s history.

Key enhancements of the project include improving accessibility for all users, including pedestrians, emergency service vehicles, and river vessels.

This includes smoother, wider pathways for pedestrians, better connections for those with mobility challenges, and a design that accommodates the needs of emergency services during critical situations.

The upgrade also ensures that the wharf is more functional and resilient to future flood events, with flood-resilient infrastructure a high priority of the designs.

The project was made possible through funding from the Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program, and the Local Government Disaster Recovery Assistance Arrangements.

Funding was also received from the South Australia Constraints Measures project being delivered by the Government of South Australia and funded by the Australian Government, as part of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

Additionally, Renmark Paringa Council is exploring further funding assistance through exceptional circumstances support and Federal Government Betterment Funding.

The project, led by Ecospec Coastal and Marine, injected an estimated $2 million into the local economy through the involvement of over 40 local businesses.

The wharf was officially opened on Wednesday 20 November by Hon Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison MP and Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter.

Council eyes housing crisis after wharf completion

Renmark Paringa Council says additional funding from the state government towards its new multi-million-dollar Renmark Riverfront Wharf will allow it to focus on significant priorities like the state’s housing crisis.

The new wharf – which was designed and constructed following the 2022/23 flood event – was officially unveiled last week in front of community members, business owners, boat operators, community groups and dignitaries.

The asset was officially opened by Hon Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison MP and Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter.

Renmark Paringa Council chief executive officer Tony Siviour said to see the wharf completed and open to the public was a significant milestone for council.

“This project has been the biggest in our history and has drawn on a lot of our resources to ensure we built back better and guarantee the wharf is a reliable asset for generations to come,” he said.

“While we have received funding towards the project from multiple streams, we are still investigating opportunities through the state government and treasurer Stephen Mullighan to further alleviate the financial burden to our ratepayers.”

Mr Siviour said that with additional funding Renmark Paringa Council could put more resources and effort towards providing more housing opportunities.

“Council wants to be an active participant in driving the state’s agenda to address the ongoing housing crisis,” he said.

“Renmark is a sought-after destination for a wide range of people looking for more affordable housing or a quality river change.

“Our long-term growth strategy is going to be released in the coming months and will outline considerable growth potential.

“We have development groups ready to invest in our community.

“By having more financial support towards the Renmark Riverfront Wharf those opportunities open up to us.”