Sitting on cliffs above the Murray River, Waikerie was established in 1894 when 280 settlers arrived by paddle-steamer. Today it’s the centre of the citrus and fruit industry in South Australia and well known for its delicious stone fruit. Waikerie enjoys one of the longest stretches of accessible riverbank and the width of the Murray makes it popular for waterskiing, sports fishing and houseboating. Be sure to spend some time on the beautiful lawn-covered banks, where you’ll find barbecue facilities, shelters, shady trees and a playground. Gluepot Reserve, 64km north of Waikerie, is home to rare and endangered plants, animals and birds, including 18 nationally threatened bird species.

FAST FACTS!

• The name Waikerie is said to mean ‘many wings’, given by the local Ngawait people to the giant swift moth ‘wei kari’
• Waikerie is renowned for its birdlife – more than 200 species inhabit the area
• The main newspaper of the region is The River News, first published in 1956 as a direct result of the 1956 floods
• The 24 hour Waikerie ferry is called Heron
• Waikerie offers one of the best gliding sites in Australia and is renowned for its fantastic soaring conditions