Murraylands leaders urge travellers to visit and marvel at the once-in-a-lifetime flood event

Once-in-a-lifetime views of the flooded Murray have prompted one council to develop scenic drives, while a local pub remains open despite water almost lapping at the door.

Murraylands leaders are imploring travellers to come to the region and marvel at the once-in-a-lifetime flood event.

The River Murray is out for recreational use due to a state government ban, and traders are feeling the sting during what is traditionally their peak season – but the flood event could usher in a different wave of tourism.

Mannum Hotel's David Anderson said the pub was open for business and had brilliant views of the levee built down the main street. Picture: Dylan Hogarth.

Adrian Pederick, the member for Hammond – whose electorate covers river communities including Murray Bridge and Mannum – said the flood event was an opportunity not to be missed and stressed the “spectacular event” could be viewed and enjoyed in safe ways.

“It’s something you possibly won’t see in your life. There is access all around the Murraylands and Riverland, and it’s perfectly safe to have a good look at the river and support regions doing it tough with a downturn in takings,” Mr Pederick said.

“Come down, it’s even a marvel to see a levee being built in the main street of Mannum.”

Mannum Hotel bottle shop manager David Anderson agreed, saying the large soil wall down the main street was a sight to behold in itself, let alone the natural beauty of the swelling river surrounding the town.

Bowhill on December 17, 2022. Picture: Facebook/ Mark Cooper

“It’s tough with the road blocked, but we’re open for business and will stay open until we’re told we can’t trade,” he said.

Mr Anderson said he had noticed an increase in people visiting Mannum to see the rising river level, adding: “Everyone is welcome.”

To take in the visual beauty of the flood event, the Mid Murray Council has developed a scenic route guide for visitors to take in the natural flood phenomenon which was “keeping the environment healthy, strong and sustainable”.

Council tourism manager Andy Glen said visitors could witness the beauty of the river and surroundings and make the most of the rare event in a safe way.

The guide is available from the Mannum Information Centre.

Levee behind the Pretoria Hotel in Mannum on December 15th, 2022. Picture: Tom Huntley

Murray Bridge Council Mayor Wayne Thorley said the region could be the “epicentre” for city people coming out and enjoying regional South Australia in a different way this summer.

“We are in the centre of a region that can be visited to see the flood in full effect and what Mother Nature is capable of doing,” he said.