Town’s huge river upgrade drawcard
A “RIVER pool” and new play, entertainment and historic precincts have been
unveiled as part of a $34m vision for Murray Bridge’s riverfront.
Murray Bridge councillors are expected to endorse a new Sturt Reserve Master Plan
on Monday night.
The plan includes a major upgrade of the historic wharf and tourist precinct
including new docking facilities, a visitor centre and cafe, and community
parklands paying tribute to the town’s history and Indigenous connection.
A swimming pool in the river is also envisioned, linking to a new play precinct.
Early concept designs of a “discovery labyrinth” area show a climbing wall, play
tower with slides and nature play features.
New picnic facilities will also be dotted along the riverfront and parklands, and
walking trails are planned.
Council’s general manager of assets and infrastructure Heather Barclay said the
master plan would be delivered in stages and was subject to applications for state
and federal government funding.
Works are already underway on a $3m “recreation precinct”, featuring a new
kayaking area and upgraded parks, funded in partnership with the federal
government.
PlanSA is also considering a development application for works in a “History and
Tourism Precinct”, worth $600,000, which would recognise European and
Indigenous heritage.
Ms Barclay said the council would need further funding from the state and federal
government to turn the project from vision to reality.
“The next focus for (the) council is the history and tourism precinct … that will
connect East Terrace to the wharf and the newly completed war memorial,” Ms
Barclay said.
“The wharf precinct is currently in the design phase and includes the restoration of
the heritage wharf … and the intent is for visitors and locals to have really good
access to vessels and the river at that location.” A multipurpose wharf shelter has
already secured $900,000 in federal government funding with an extra $1.5m grant
under consideration.
Tourism Industry Council chief executive Shaun de Bruyn said the riverfront
upgrade would help cement Murray Bridge’s status as a destination.
“What’s fascinating is that the investment into Murray Bridge, from a number of
private entities and government, has been unprecedented when compared to the rest of the state,” he said.
“It’s become a real hotspot for investment in tourism and other economic
development.”
