Multi-day Riverland hiking, cycling trail bid aims to draw in tourists
A multi-day trail will boost tourism in the Riverland, local councils say, and they have called for tenders from firms to plan a route that could be the region’s answer to the Riesling Trail.
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An iconic multi-day walking and cycling trail will boost tourism in the Riverland, local councils say, and they are spending about $100,000 on a study to create a route in the region.
Renmark Paringa and Berri Barmera councils have called for tenders from firms interested in mapping out a trail strategy for the region, including linking existing routes to create a multi-day walk.
Renmark Paringa chief executive Tony Siviour said the councils wanted a journey answering to the Clare Valley’s Riesling Trail and the Lavender Trail, which stretches between Murray Bridge and Clare.
“We’re probably the only area of SA that doesn’t have an overarching trail strategy, and the Yorke Peninsula have Walk the Yorke as well,” Mr Siviour said.
“There’s no connectivity between all the (Riverland) towns.”
It is hoped a new multi-day trail could be created between Cadell, in the Riverland’s east, and the area near the state’s border with Victoria.
“It’s going to have an economic impact because it gives people something additional to do when they’re in the region,” Mr Siviour said.
The two councils will set aside money for the strategy, but also hope to win government grants to help cover its cost.
The region already features popular trails at Paringa Paddocks and Katarapko — part of the Murray River National Park near Loxton — which would be celebrated along a regional trail. “The river is our main attraction and some of our creek systems are pretty awesome as well,” Mr Siviour said.
“It’s about working with all the land owners to understand where the opportunities are.”
The region had plenty of caravan parks and other accommodation allowing weary walkers and cyclists to stop off for the evening, and the study would also consider whether additional campsites were needed.
Mr Siviour expects the strategy to be complete by the end of the financial year. The time frame for on-the-ground work is dependent on when funds are available.
The tender contract includes identifying the social, economic and environmental benefits a new trail would bring to South Australia, consulting with community groups and other stakeholders and developing trail branding and marketing material.
michelle.etheridge@news.com.au