Matulick Riverfront Trail

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Posted 2023-04-20 by Audrey ⇒ follow

Following the banks of the River Murray, offers not only great views over the majestic river but also historical information about Renmark's picturesque riverfront area. It starts at the visitor information centre on Murray Avenue and extends approximately 3.5 kilometres on mostly flat terrain. Its easy pathway would suit people of all fitness levels.

The trail incorporates a step counter every 420 or so metres to assist you in increasing your daily steps. A further 4000 steps can be added by walking towards the Big 4 Holiday Park and back. The trail is also popular among cyclists, so do be mindful of that when you're out on your walk.

The riverfront area holds much history and I found its interpretive signs to be rather interesting. Behind the visitor information centre is PS Industry , a 1911 paddle steamer used for de-snagging the river as well as the construction of the locks and weirs . When it became obsolete in the late 1960s, the paddle steamer was given to Renmark and restored by volunteers as a historic passenger vessel. Steaming days are now scheduled multiple times each year.

Hotel Renmark was the first community-owned hotel in the British Empire. By the 1920s, it had become one of the finest in South Australia. The hotel still stands today and continues to return its profits to the community. I've stayed there twice before. Accommodation styles range from premium river-view balcony spa rooms to cosy standard hotel rooms, to suit every guest.

After being burnt down, the Ozone Theatre was rebuilt and later redesigned for talking movies. Unfortunately, patronage waned with the arrival of drive-in movies and televisions forcing it to close in 1966. Fast forward to the 21st century and the cinema industry continues to change. Ironically, Adelaide's last drive-in theatre ceased its operations about 13 months ago.

Another significant structure is the 1931 bandstand at Jarrett Memorial Gardens . It was erected at a cost of approximately 500 pounds and used by the Renmark Citizens Silver Band for Sunday night concerts. Large crowds regularly gathered here. Today, the garden is still a popular site for various music, and private and community events. In 2010, a sculpture was dedicated to David Ruston in recognition of his floricultural contributions. It sits permanently within a rose garden overlooking the river. The bronze figure depicts David's typical pose using a secateurs upside down.

Last but not least, the relatively new Taylor Riverfront Precinct is also a highlight along the trail. It features a water play area for the kids as well as a river deck made from 100% recycled products. There are shelters and barbecues for that all-important family get-together too.

So, be sure to put on your to-do list when visiting Renmark. And, if you happen to be there at dusk, don't forget to say hi to the local palm-tree-dwelling marsupials. These friendly possums tend to run down the tree trunks each evening and are not scared of humans at all.